Students from Arcadia’s Craftivism class, taught by Assistant Director of Honors and Professor of Visual and Performing Arts Carole Loeffler as part of the Honors Program, created two banners outside of Penny’s Flowers in Keswick Village, Pa. The group worked alongside Penny’s and the Glenside Civic Association to bring this community-centered art display to life.

Loeffler worked with her students to use several variations of craft techniques, including painting, sewing, crocheting, collage, and embroidery.

“The goal of the Craftivism class is to help students become agents of change by using fiber-based art practices and materials as tools for communication and connection,” Loeffler said. “This project extended that aim into a public, community-centered context—inviting students to think about how their work could contribute to a shared space, reflect collective values, and foster a sense of belonging.”

The class’s connection with the Glenside Civic Association was formed by Arts and Marketing Event Coordinator David Guinn and Executive Director of Civic and Global Engagement Alison LaLond Wyant, leading to members of the association visiting campus to share insights and goals for the project with students. 

“This is the first time the class has worked on a project at this scale. It’s been inspiring to see students step into leadership and collaborative roles, to create work that moves beyond the classroom,” Loeffler said. “As an artist, it’s been a really special experience watching students create large-scale work for public space and contribute to a project that has a big impact both conceptually and visually.”

Students drew inspiration from Penny’s Flowers to develop a floral concept for the larger, 30-foot banner, which reads, “Be the reason something blooms.” A smaller banner reads, “Welcome to Keswick.” Each student designed and created one letter for each phrase and one flower.

“I think the whole class wanted to convey that multiple people can come together and still contribute to a beautiful piece of art while still maintaining individuality, kind of a celebration of every person and what we can all achieve together,” explained Biology major Maggie Dent ’26. “It brings change and beauty into a familiar environment. To me, it is a good reminder to have color, joy, and fun in your life.”

“This project reinforces the idea that creative practice can be both personal and communal, and that even small, individual contributions can come together to form something much larger,” added Loeffler.

The project will remain displayed at Penny’s Flowers, designed to strengthen the connections between Arcadia’s campus, Keswick Village, and the greater Glenside community.