Salem To Unveil 7 Sculptures On Harbor Connector Path

SALEM, MA — Seven sculptures located along the Salem Harbor Connector Patch will be unveiled at a grand opening ceremony next week.

The path, endorsed by the Salem Public Art Commission and Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll, was completed this summer. The grand opening ceremony can be viewed remotely here on Dec. 3 at 1 p.m.

Salem Senior Planner for Arts & Culture Julie Barry guided the project in partnership with independent sculpture curator Judith Klien.

"We wanted to celebrate the formal unveiling of this new path by offering people of all ages and backgrounds the opportunity to experience art by regional artists against a backdrop of beautiful parkland and scenic views of Collins Cove," Barry said. "Although we have many public murals and quite a few memorials recognizing historical figures, the installation of the Salem Harbor Walk Connector Path Sculpture Garden will make the first long-term temporary display of contemporary sculpture in the city in many years."

David Boyajian, Jose Criollo, Shawn Farrell, Gints Grinbergs, James Meyer and Robin Tost contributed sculptures to the project that will stand at the site from Dec. 1 through Nov. 30, 2021. Those viewing them will be able to get information about the works and the sculptors here or through hovering a smart phone camera over a QR code at each sculpture.

"This exciting project is a continuation of our work to advance the vision of Salem's Public Art Master Plan," said Mayor Driscoll. "I want to thank the Public Art Commission and City staff for their efforts to make this new sculpture garden a reality. The Harbor Connector Path Sculpture Garden will be an uplifting and engaging focal point in our community’s growing trail network."

The project was funded through a MassTrails grant. The Harbor Connector Path connects the Peter Tracy Walkway at Collins Cove to the Bentley School and Derby Street.