Community Corner
Famous Kiss Statue Heading for Warmer Climes
Seward Johnson's 'Embracing Peace' is leaving town but you can still catch 'Rosie the Riveter' at the farmers market.
ROYAL OAK, MI — Apparently it's a little chilly for an outdoor kiss. The statue of the world-famous embrace that marked the end of WWII, which has been in Royal Oak for more than six months, is heading south for the winter. Seward Johnson’s “Embracing Peace” is going to Key West Jan. 5, the city has announced in a press release.
The sculpture helped raise awareness and funds for The Michigan WWII Legacy Memorial, the state’s officially recognized tribute to its contributions during the second world war. It honors Michigan’s role both on the war front and the home front as the Arsenal of Democracy and the home of Rosie the Riveter.
The sculpture has provided a dramatic backdrop for the Woodward Dream Cruise, the Royal Oak Outdoor Art Fair, Paws in the Park and a celebration of the 71st anniversary of VJ Day and the end of the war. Most recently, Michigan residents gathered for a candle light ceremony marking the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. This is of course in addition to the likely thousands of photographs taken by visitors from across the state. With a few weeks to go before it leaves, it’s not too late for anyone who has not yet taken their picture with this memorable image to do so.
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In the meantime, another Seward Johnson’s work, Can Do!, a life-sized rendition of Rosie the Riveter, is currently on display at the Royal Oak Farmer’s Market.
Debi Hollis, President of The Michigan WWII Legacy Memorial remarked, “We were so proud to have this sculpture come to the site of The Michigan WWII Legacy Memorial. We are grateful to the Seward Johnson Atelier for their partnership and belief in our project. Their support has been remarkable and we truly can’t thank them enough. This sculpture has truly broadened our exposure and support base and we are thrilled.”
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Local funding has been generously provided by Jack and Annette Aronson of Clean Planet Foods.
“We’ve been proud supporters of The Michigan WWII Legacy Memorial for the last three years,” Jack Aronson said. “Sponsoring the installation of this iconic statue near the site of the memorial was another great opportunity to help raise awareness and funds for the project.”
Photo from City of Royal Oak
