Ralph “Pink Bike Ralph” Stollenwork returned to Troy Community School last month to continue a screen printing project with students.
Troy Community School (TCS) was once again thrilled to welcome Philadephia artist Ralph Stollenwerk – better known as “Pink Bike Ralph” – this spring for his twice-a-year artist residency, continuing a hands-on t-shirt design program and leading a schoolwide community quilt project.
Stollenwerk, whose work includes posters for performers such as Olivia Rodrigo, Mumford & Sons, and Tom Segura, is also the founder of a successful T-shirt printing business that serves clients nationwide. His residencies at TCS combine art, entrepreneurship and student-centered learning.
With every visit, student excitement continues to grow. What began as a one-time experience has evolved into a growing program – students now regularly print t-shirts for district staff and gain hands-on experience in design and screen printing.
During this latest visit in May, students and staff participated in a powerful community art project: creating a school-wide quilt. Each person printed their own unique fabric square, and this summer, teachers Samantha Miller (ELA) and Tanya Harrison (Art) will assemble the pieces into a finished quilt. The final product will serve as a lasting symbol of unity, creativity, and shared purpose.
Ralph “Pink Bike Ralph” Stollenwork returned to Troy Community School last month to continue a screen printing project with students.
The T-shirt portion of the project will continue as well. Students plan to sell and auction off shirts they designed and printed, with proceeds benefiting the school’s holiday outreach program, which provides food, clothing and holiday gifts for families in need.
We’d like to thank Ralph for his continued commitment to working with our students and sharing his expertise, time, and talents. This partnership reflects ongoing efforts to provide meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that connect students to their community through art and service.
