New Wilmington public art installation honors historic Tea Ladies protest

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A new public art installation celebrating a little-known piece of Wilmington’s Revolutionary War history has been unveiled downtown.

The City of Wilmington celebrated the unveiling of “Canceled Cups” at Celebration Pop-up Park, located at 305 Chestnut St.

The installation was inspired by the Wilmington Tea Ladies, a group of local women who publicly protested British rule in the spring of 1775 by burning their tea.

The women’s protest, known as the Wilmington Ladies Tea Walk, was documented by Scottish visitor Janet Schaw and later published in her Journal of a Lady of Quality.

“Canceled Cups” was created by Wilmington artists Lauren Pallotta Stumberg and Dumay Gorham.

Stumberg’s abstract artwork and Gorham’s metalwork come together in the installation, connecting Wilmington’s history with contemporary public art.

During the unveiling ceremony, Art Council of Wilmington President and CEO Rhonda Bellamy said public art can help tell the story of a community and remind us of the history that shapes who we are.

“It also helps define who we are and communicates something about what we value,” said Bellamy.

The project was made possible in part through $25,000 allocated by Wilmington City Council as part of the city’s efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence.

City officials are encouraging residents and visitors to stop by Celebration Pop-up Park to see the new installation.