Photos: Twists and Turns of Steel

has a change of scenery this summer with the installation of eight new steel art pieces, which together compose Novi's second annual Public Sculpture Exhibit.

The exhibit opened Friday, and the pieces will be on display until May 2012.

Eight pieces, composed of painted and otherwise tempered steel, have been installed throughout the park's walking spaces and in front of the as part of an ongoing effort to bring art, much of which has been created by Michigan artists, to the community.

The pieces, which explore people, nature and concepts, are scattered throughout the park, inviting the public to likewise explore their own communities and nature. 

“Providing public art adds beauty to our community while instilling civic pride and citizen engagement," said Lauren Sorrentino, arts coordinator for Novi Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services, in a press release. "This exhibit will encourage people to enjoy the art along with the many events and programs at Fuerst Park, including the Sizzling Summer Arts Series, offered throughout the summer."

The exhibit's opening coincided with a as part of the Sizzling Summer Arts Series Friday.

The opening event included a sculptural scavenger hunt of the exhibit, in which sisters Katie Nicholson, 16, and 10-year-old Lindsay of Novi were among the first of the children to gather the facts and make their way through the hunt.

The exhibit is funded by the Novi Parks Foundation.