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Pennsylvania Prepares for America’s 250th with Statewide Liberty Bell Art Project

Every county to showcase a uniquely designed bell celebrating local heritage and identity

Charles Sisk

Charles Sisk

Jul 17, 2026

3 Comments

Pennsylvania is gearing up for a major celebration of America’s 250th birthday with a striking statewide art initiative that will bring communities together through creativity and history.

The “Bells Across PA” project will place 67 fiberglass Liberty Bells—one in each county—featuring custom designs that highlight the people, landmarks, and traditions that define each area. The Liberty Bell, long recognized as a symbol of both the nation and the Commonwealth, will take on new life through these locally inspired works. Its significance continues to grow, with plans already underway to feature the iconic image on Pennsylvania’s upcoming license plates.

Beginning this summer, each county will unveil its own distinctive bell. In Westmoreland County, artist Mandy Sirofchuck is currently crafting one of these pieces at her Ligonier studio. Once completed in August, the bell will be installed outside the Westmoreland Museum of American Art in Greensburg.

Silvia Filippini-Fantoni, the museum’s director, emphasized the importance of placing the artwork in a public space. She noted that outdoor art rooted in community identity invites deeper engagement, encouraging visitors to explore its details and share stories inspired by its imagery. The goal is to create not just a visual experience, but a meaningful connection among residents and visitors alike.

In addition to the museum’s bell, organizers are also seeking a local artist to create a second Westmoreland County bell centered on the theme “MORE Energy in Westmoreland: Powering Our Past and Energizing Our Future.” Sponsored by First Energy, this piece will incorporate imagery representing energy sources such as coal, solar, wind, natural gas, and hydroelectric power.

Artists interested in this paid opportunity can submit their designs now, with further details available through Discover Westmoreland.

3 Comments

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  • P
    pgh_barb52· Jul 17, 8:02 PM

    The energy theme for the second bell is interesting. Coal AND solar on the same bell is pretty much the whole history of this region in one image honestly.

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    Terry Volkov· Jul 17, 7:01 PM

    Curious how they picked Mandy Sirofchuck for the museum bell. Not saying she isn't talented, just wonder if other local artists got a shot at that one or if it was invite only.

  • DM
    Dana M.· Jul 17, 6:00 PM

    Love that the Westmoreland bell is going outside the museum in Greensburg so everyone can see it, not just people who go inside. Public art like this actually gets people talking.

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