THE ASSEMBLY LINE - A Public Art Project

A collaborative photocollage led by Rashmi Talpade

Outside Building 2

The Assembly Line is a community created photo-collage that celebrates the Town of Cheshire, Connecticut. The title is a nod towards the project’s host, Ball and Socket Arts, a historic factory complex that is being developed into a major cultural venue in the state. This photo-based mural is comprised of prints made from over two thousand images, submitted by community members of their favorite spots, town landmarks, and neighborhoods, including a collection of black & white historical photographs. These prints were then cut and glued, under the guidance of resident artist Rashmi Talpade, during community collage making sessions held town-wide at a number of locations to enhance participation. Over 300 individuals, ranging from the age of 5 to 85, from the Town of Cheshire and beyond participated in these sessions for a few minutes to a full hour and a half. All collage making sessions were offered for free and open to the public by Ball and Socket Arts, regardless of age, ability or art experience. The entire process took four months with the final finishing touches being made by the artist in her studio.

About the Artist: Connecticut-based artist Rashmi Talpade uses diverse mediums to create works inspired by real and imaginary places. Over the past ten years she has been involved in creating collaborative projects that bring together and builds harmonious relations between diverse communities through art. The Assembly Line is the artist’s tenth community project. Previous projects were conducted at Yale New Haven Hospital, New Britain Museum of American Art, UCONN Avery Points and a number of public libraries and schools throughout Connecticut and New York.