A native Pennsylvanian, Joe Beddall was born in Reading, PA and raised in Wilkes Barre, PA. After 14 years in Washington, DC, he has made his home in State College, PA. He is a graduate of Kutztown State University, where he studied under James Carroll, director of New Arts Program (NAP). 

Beddall’s North Star is inspired by a quilt pattern used to guide the enslaved through The Underground Railroad. The pattern represents Polaris -- more commonly known as the North Star -- and served as a beacon to freedom seekers. The Underground Railroad occupies an important place in American History and in the local history of Bellefonte. “I hope the work encourages people to continue to reach for the dream, always,” says Beddall. 

This public art project and public art in general adds meaning to our town and uniqueness to our community. Not only does it establish and beautify a public space, but it also expresses and supports a sense of neighborhood history, culture and identity and helps drive economic vitality. Public art plays an invaluable role in the process of community building. With the installation of this sculpture, we are making art accessible to all, which fulfills one of the museum’s major missions.