NEWBURYPORT — Mayor Sean Reardon and the Public Art Committee (PAC) inform the community of a Call for Artists for a commissioned artwork to be displayed in Market Landing Park.
The PAC is seeking artwork to be featured as a prominent display in the park in the downtown area. The park expansion, which will include plazas, a bike path connection, and expanded lawn areas, is expected to be completed in the late spring of 2024.
The call is for a ship sculpture that showcases Newburyport’s shipbuilding heritage. The artwork should convey the historical importance of shipbuilding and/or maritime activities in the city, which were concentrated downtown along the Merrimack River.
The desired sculpture is not limited to any art style or materials. Artists may choose a literal or abstract interpretation. However, materials must be durable to time and weather.
The commissioned artwork will be paid for through grant funding. Interested artists are encouraged to submit their proposals on the City website. Proposals must be submitted by May 9 to be considered. The PAC and Project Manager may ask follow-up questions or request interviews to aid in the Committee’s selection process.
A final decision should be expected on or around May 24.
“We are very excited about the opening of the highly anticipated Market Landing Park expansion and believe this public art piece will be an important contributing element to the park, which will celebrate our maritime history,” said Mayor Reardon. “We have such an active and talented artist community here, and it will be wonderful to highlight those talents in this prominent location.“
