Local Artist Looks To Build Sculpture In Mitchell Park

For those interested in both photography and local history, artist Andrea Cote of Flanders, is planning on incorporating both through an interactive, multimedia art piece she calls “Port of View”.

“I’m interested in hearing the stories and history of the area,” Cote said. “I wanted to engage the viewer and the community and bring interest in the history of the community.”

The piece will be displayed in Mitchell Park beside the Camera Obscura, facing the Peconic Bay and Shelter Island to the south and will consist of a rotating structure cast in concrete, that will be built in collaboration with Peter Castillo of Castillo Scapes in Southold.

“The circular imagery and rotating structure echoes the Greenport Merry-go-Round and the walk-in Camera Obscura, two unique and celebrated attractions,” according to Cote.

The history of the town will be displayed through photographs and through documentary-style videos of families from the town that can be accessed through QR codes on the sculpture which will bring users to the Town of Greenport’s website where the videos will be posted.

Cote presented the plan for this project to the Greenport Village Board on Monday, Sept. 15 and is still awaiting board approval.

She plans on working on the project during the fall before hosting a public preview at the Greenport library sometime in December. By spring, she will install the piece on site to debut at the park around Memorial Day.

She has received a $2,500 grant from New York State Council of the Arts for the project, but is still needs about $2,500 to help complete it. In addition, she is looking for local builders or printers who might contribute to the project and families from the area to interview.

“All supporters will be recognized and received a limited addition print,” Cote said.

Anybody interested in learning more or donating to Cote’s project, or know a family that would be interested in being interview for the project, can e-mail Cote at andrea@andreaspace.net.