Category animals in art

Tribute to Very Temporary Art on Halloween

Though I have sometimes posted about temporary art*, .this is my first focus on how it is part of what happens in my neighborhood on Halloween. Every Labor Day, by a recent tradition, neighbors of all ages meet to propose, discuss, consider and then vote to choose a Halloween theme. This allows several weeks for families, individuals and groups to plan and create amazing artworks that connect our homes for one brief energetic evening.

Focus on Sophy Tuttle’s Memorial Mural for an Eagle Named MK

“Last week, artist Sophy Tuttle put the final touches on her awe-inspiring tribute to MK, a much-loved female eagle who died from eating rats poisoned with rodenticide; the poison doesn’t kill immediately, impairing rodents so they become easy prey.  Sophy’s glowing image remembers MK as a strong and glorious bird, in the prime of her life, surrounded by wildflowers that contribute to a healthy ecosystem. ” ( quote from NEW MURAL HONORS FALLEN EAGLE, Arts Arlington newsletter, Sept. 2024 )

Sidewalk Murals Focus on Storm Drains in Arlington

Bright new murals on Arlington sidewalks mark stark metal grids meant to draw rainwater back down toward local lakes and rivers. If the grids and drains below are blocked and cluttered, that necessary flow is slowed, or worse!
So art leads our eyes down to places where we can help address that problem when we Adopt a Drain! Here are quotes and links that help explain.

Explore Jeffrey Gibson’s Completed Mural in Dewey Square

September 27 was my first visit since the completion of “your spirit whispering in my ear.” These photos, notes, quotes, and links form a sequel to the early-September post about the mural in progress. 

STORYWALKS Display Book Arts in Parks Worldwide, including Cambridge

In recent summers I’d been captivated by spreads of whole picturebooks along fences in Cambridge parks. I’ve appreciated these broadened views of related illustrations and book design, as well as the opportunity for everybody to follow stories as they move throughout a park.
This post shares examples from my city, plus some background information that made me aware of StoryWalks around the world.

The Lexington Women’s Monument by Meredith Bergmann Brings Together and Celebrates Many, Many Inspiring Stories

My first and only visit to the monument so far was for the artist’s enlightening talk on Dedication Day, May 18. I plan to return often, eager to absorb everything sculptor Meredith Bergmann’s amazing artwork offers. Meanwhile here are quotes, resources and a few photos to guide your own visit, online or in person.

Explore Winchester Riverwalk Exhibit: Sculpture and Augmented Reality through October 2024

One Visit Revealed at Least Twenty More Great Reasons to Return!
This post is focused on the four “anchors” of the exhibit: sculptures by R. Douglas Rice, David Adilman, Chris Plaisted, and John BonSignore. Links to each artist’s website are listed under KEY RESOURCES.
Soon I hope to focus on the thirteen listed Augmented Reality sites plus several other enticing sidelights* of Winchester Riverwalk. * plants, animals, water structures, photo cubes, art tiles

Uplifting Updates about Hayward Zwerling’s Interactive Artworks: Giraffes and Elephant on Bike Path

George the Giraffe, Big Poppy, and Elly the Elephant still grace the Somerville Community Path on both sides of the Cedar Street intersection. More than five years have passed since they first mysteriously appeared.All three bright sturdy animal characters continue to turn delighted heads of people passing, in familiar greeting or surprise! Bikers, walkers, runners, and school groups still stop by to set them in motion, with a reliable, satisfying sense of effort. Now finally I feel free to confirm that Hayward Zwerling created them! A recent Globe article, April 2024, by Spencer Buell reveals their stories, with great supporting photos.My main goal here is to enthusiastically share links to the Globe article* and to valuable related resources ( videos, context) on Hayward Zwerling’s website.

The Beauty of Utility Boxes as Public Art: Samples and Plans

I have long planned and should soon include an ART OUTDOORS page for Utility Boxes as Public Art with resources about this special art form. The current post is a first step in committing to the plan.
Why are Utility Boxes Great Sites for Public Art? Six answers and several examples follow.
Art by Christos Hamawi ( Boston), Pom Poison ( Somerville, Laurie Bogdan, Karen McCarthy (Arlington), Molly Scannell ( Arlington)

WINTERACTIVE, Boston 2024: “Echoes” and “Guitar Slide,”Two Samples from Sixteen Artworks

WINTERACTIVE: A Canadian Art Experience in Downtown Boston January 17–April 14, 2024 With barely one month left for this innovative temporary display of sixteen outdoor artworks in Boston, here is my overdue post, with focus on a grand-scale whale and a giant guitar.