Community Celebrates the Opening of Public Art Plaza at Erwin Center

Gastonia, NC — The Highland Neighborhood Association (HNA) invites community residents, local artists, and partners to attend a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and community celebration marking the official opening of the Public Art Plaza at Erwin Center.

For nearly seven years, HNA has worked to address upstream factors impacting health, well-being, and quality of life in the Highland community by advancing systems-level, resident-informed initiatives. This work is supported through the Highland Collaborative, a long-standing partnership of stakeholders committed to centering neighborhood voices and strengthening community-led solutions.

The Public Art Plaza features a “Walk of Fame Pathway” composed of layered imagery that uplifts the history, culture, and lived experiences of Gastonia’s African American Highland community. Through visual storytelling, the installation captures a meaningful period of local history while celebrating the fusion of past and present. The plaza offers both artistic expression and historical education for residents and visitors alike.

“This park represents what’s possible when residents, artists, and partners come together with a shared vision,” said a project representative. “The Public Art Plaza at Erwin is not just about art — it’s about creating a space where people feel seen, valued, and connected.”

The Highland Art Park was made possible through a generous donation from the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation, along with collaboration among community leaders, local organizations, artists, and volunteers dedicated to place-based, resident-centered neighborhood revitalization.

Community members are invited to attend the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and celebration on Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 3:00–5:00 p.m. at Erwin Recreation Center, located at 913 N. Pryor Street, Gastonia, NC 28052.

To learn more about the history of the Highland Art Park, visit www.thehighlandcommunityartpark.com.

For additional information or to RSVP to the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, please contact Donyel Barber at dbarber@kintegra.org or 704-813-9384.