Three Slippery Rock University students visit with the owner of a business in Dauphin County, which the students visited as part of a tourism and public relations project. From left are SRU students Zach Wampler and Sydney Carroll; Shawn Gold, owner of Coexist Glass Gallery in Steelton, Pa.; and SRU student Claire Grunden. The young adults are enrolled in the hospitality and tourism program at SRU. Submitted Photo

Four Slippery Rock University students in a tourism-public relations class visited an art mural in Dauphin County to learn more about using art installations to promote and generate tourism.

Professor Mary Jo Ross’ class is partnering with Coexist Glass Gallery in Steelton, Pa., and its owner, Shawn Gold.

On April 11, Gold welcomed the students from Ross’ class, who visited the site to learn more about the effectiveness of art installations in promoting tourism while helping Gold promote his upcoming Coexist in Kindness program.

Coexist in Kindness is being hosted by the Steelton Farmers Market in 2023.

The students also will engage with Coexist in Kindness by creating new social media campaigns and designing print media ads and news releases for upcoming summer farm markets, open mic nights featuring local entertainers, special events and art education expos in Steelton, Ross said.

“We are excited to bring the Steelton Farmers Market to life and create a space where the community can come together and enjoy fresh, healthy food while supporting local businesses,” Gold said. “Our market is a celebration of the diversity and vibrancy of Steelton.”

Gold’s goal is to connect tourism opportunities with future student leaders from various programs in Pennsylvania, along with other art events.

“Fashioning a tourism destination with a vibrant mosaic art installation draws awareness to the Harrisburg area, but also provides a designated location for local hospitality and events,” Ross said.

The glass mosaic the students visited at Coexist Glass covers the entire side of the gallery’s exterior.

Ross said art tourism is a high-impact opportunity in Pennsylvania, where artists can demonstrate their talent and locals can experience it.

While in Steelton, the SRU students also interviewed Steelton Historical Society board members and the creators and coordinators of the glass artwork at the gallery.

“Students can connect better with learning in applied instruction while working directly with business owners and experiencing the real-life struggles of rebuilding a community and generating tourism,” Ross said.