Jean Shin’s Settings, a permanent installation in PS/IS 276, is comprised
of ceramic plates donated by the families and staff of PS/IS 276, and
members of the larger community of Battery Park City.   By collecting
and displaying decorative plates from homes and offices in the
neighborhood, this installation brings the domestic realm into the public
setting of the school’s cafeteria. While the plates themselves represent
individual participants, the wide range of collected designs speaks to the
diversity of the neighborhood. The participatory nature of the artwork makes
Settings a portrait of local families, residents and organizations in Battery
Park City that support the life of the school. Inspired by the belief that early
childhood education grows out of the home and the school, this project
celebrates the tradition of families and communities eating together and
learning from the stories that each person contributes during meal times.

Commissioned by the NYC Department of Education and the NYC School
Construction Authority Public Art for Public Schools Program, in partnership
with the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs Percent for Art Program

Collection of the NYC Department of Education

Special thanks to Battery Park City Authority

Permanently installed in Fall 2010
NYC Department of Cultural Affairs Percent for Art  Program