Wheeling Heritage, in partnership with the Wheeling Arts and Cultural Commission, is calling on the community to choose which Wheeling iconography should be included in a new collaborative art project. The “Wheeling A to Z” project will be comprised of 26 letters of the alphabet, each representing something unique to Wheeling. From “A for Almost Heaven” to “Z for Betty Zane” and everything in between, this art project will be brimming with Wheeling pride.
This is where you come in! Wheeling Heritage and the Wheeling Arts and Cultural Commission are seeking input from the community to help determine what each letter should represent. Afterward, project organizers will meet to determine the finalists and work with local artists who will produce their interpretation of each letter and theme.
The result of this project will be a poster and additional merchandise featuring the Wheeling Alphabet that will be sold at local retail stores across the city. The goal is to create a unique product that allows residents and visitors alike to show off their Wheeling pride and some of the people, places and things that make it special.
This project is made possible by Wheeling Heritage and the Wheeling Arts and Cultural Commission, but not without the help and encouragement of one art-loving Wheelingite. The initial concept of this project was brought forth by Wheeling resident, Pat Jeffers. Pat has long been a supporter of the arts, and when she came across the concept of a city alphabet while traveling she was inspired to make something similar happen right here in her hometown.
“I have always been proud to be from Wheeling,” says Jeffers. “I think this project will remind people of many of the great things about this city and highlight the tremendous arts community we have here.”
So, what are you waiting for? Complete our poll and help us decide which Wheeling symbols should be included in the Wheeling alphabet! We started with a few options for each letter, but feel free to add your own suggestions by selecting the “other” option and typing in your response.
We will be collecting feedback through Friday, March 10. The project will culminate later this year with a gallery exhibit on West Virginia Day (June 20). At that time, the original artwork will be revealed and merchandise will be available for purchase.
If you are an artist who is interested in participating in this project, visit wheelingheritage.org/wheeling-a-z to learn more and apply.
• Alex Panas is the Program Manager for Wheeling Heritage, where she works with artists, small business owners, and community stakeholders to provide technical assistance and create meaningful programs that enhance Wheeling. She also serves as the managing editor for Weelunk. Alex lives in St. Clairsville with her husband where they raise four cats and four spunky backyard chickens.