Community Corner
Benicia Waterfront Statue To Be Unveiled
Excitement is building over "Neptune's Daughter."
From the City of Benicia: Benicia, the wait is almost over. Benicia resident Lisa Reinerston’s “Neptune’s Daughter” bronze sculpture, will be unveiled Saturday, May 11, at 11 a.m.
The final installation phase is currently underway at its permanent location on the shoreline walkway behind The Tannery Building at 129-131 First Street. The Saturday, May 11 unveiling ceremony will feature remarks from the artist, Mayor Elizabeth Patterson, community sponsor David Bachelor and others. In addition, a special performance by members of VOENA, a local children’s vocal group, will open the ceremony.
Bringing this magnificent nearly seven-foot bronze sculpture to the waterfront is the result of a year-long collaborative effort by sculptor Lisa Reinertson, the City of Benicia, David and Annette Batchelor, Joe Lopez, property owner, and the City of Benicia Arts and Culture Commission.
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Reinerston donated the sculpture to the City of Benicia, while residents David and Annette Batchelor agreed to fund the cost of site preparation, granite pedestal and installation costs. In addition, the Batchelors oversaw a community fundraiser, selling engraved bricks, to help defray the cost of casting the sculpture.
According to Reinerston, “The theme of the sculpture has to do with stewardship of the natural habitat of our bays and oceans. I thought that placing my sculpture in downtown Benicia on the waterfront would be a wonderful idea.”
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She added, “As a sentinel, and reminder of the diligence needed to keep our waters healthy for our futures, the sculpture could play a positive role in our town. I have always believed that public artwork, thoughtfully integrated into an environment, creates a sense of place that can greatly enhance a city.”
David Dodd, Benicia’s Director of Library and Cultural Services, said “The Reinertson statue is a significant addition to what is becoming a very impressive array of public art in Benicia, which already includes works by Judy Chicago, Robert Arneson, Sandra Shannonhouse, and many others. Having a Benicia artist such as Lisa Reinertson express this level of generosity is very gratifying.”
Image Courtesy of the City of Benicia
