commissioned for Seton Hall University
acrylic on canvas 6 1/2 ft. x 16 ft.
unveiled April 24, 1993
The observer does not see everything at first glance. There is a juxtaposition of several distinct planes within a single picture, inviting the observer to wander through and absorb all the different parts of the picture. The mural portrays an animated tableau of student groupings giving figurative form to Seton Hall University’s motto, “Hazard Zet Forward,” (In spite of the hazards, go forward.”) It celebrates the intellectual dominion of campus culture as defined through the student activity. It is to affirm the University’s educational mandate to humanize the intellect, nurture the soul, and go forward with aspirations that are often constricted by words.
Viewing from the top, from left to right, five lunettes illustrate the early history of the University.
(1) James Roosevelt Bayley was confirmed a Bishop in 1850. (2) He named the school after his aunt, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. (3) A spiritual intensity is given to the intellectual drama of the founding of the school; that tie when documents were signed by the Bishop and placed in historical archive by the monks.
(4) The college began with only five students. (5) Seton Hall College became Seton Hall University in 1950. (6) In 1856, the first Seton Hall College was established in Madison, New Jersey. (7) In tribute to Seton Hall Basketball, triumphant athletes ascend in fanciful rhythms of form in the brightness of a standing room only arena.
(8) To affirm the power of the University, who are the alumni, the focal point of the mural is the doorway to Alumni Hall. (9) The elegance and magnificence of the Seton Hall Class of 1950, the first to receive graduate degrees in law, fine art, business and medicine, is enriched by full columns and their luxuriant composite capitals.
(10) In the courtyard of thinkers, a student violinist represents the foundation of a more sensitive world where music is something created by man. (11) A student journalist interviews for the Setonian.
(12) Current technology allows a student to do her homework on a laptop computer. (13) The potential of solar energy offers abundant evidence of a practical imagination kindled by the enthusiasm of discovery. (14) Concerned minds focus on the ecology and the natural potential of plants. (15) Students from the School of Graduate Medical Education share their knowledge.
(16) Alumnus Robert E. Brennan gives a future “Pirate” the grand tour. (17) A scene, circa 1856, the year the university was founded, kindles the imagination and enthusiasm for more discovery about the University. (18) The language of lofty contemplation is offered by a poet or political science major before an audience of well-wishers. (19) World peace brings about discussions for a harmonic coherence of the world. (20) To stay up to date on campus life, students are faithful readers of the Setonian. (21) Visions of the future stimulate a passionate discussion about space travel exploration.