October 1, 2024
Public Art Commission Sculptures Dedicated in Two City Parks
City-led beautification on display
Fort Wayne, Ind –Today Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker and Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel were joined by representatives of the Fort Wayne Public Art Commission, neighborhood representatives, city officials and residents to officially dedicate two new sculptures; one in Lakeside Park (1401 Lake Avenue) and the second in Shoaff Park (6401 St. Joe Road).
The sculpture in Lakeside Park called “Crescent Moon Quartet” uses a series of crescent moon shapes to demarcate space and time. The sculpture in Shoaff Park called “Mystery of Continuity and Change” seeks to embody the tension between being at rest and the joy of being active in the natural environment. Both pieces by artist Jim Merz are designed to move with the wind.
This project was made possible through Investing in Neighborhoods Now (INN) funds dedicated to the Public Art Commission (PAC) by the Northeast Area Partnership to commission public art in the northeast quadrant. The PAC created the Northeast Quadrant Public Art Selection Committee which conducted a survey of residents and recommended the placement of public art sculptures in Lakeside and Shoaff Parks. Several proposals were received from regional and local artists. Proposals by Merz were recommended by the selection committee and approved by the PAC and the Fort Wayne Board of Park Commissioners.
“Public art plays an important role in Fort Wayne’s ongoing efforts to provide an enhanced quality of life for all residents. Bringing new and unique amenities to our community is vital as we work to be a place where individuals, families, and visitors want to be,” said Mayor Tucker. “I’m impressed with the teamwork and collaboration that’s been demonstrated with this project. Our commitment to strong and vibrant neighborhoods is evident.”
“The Public Art Commission takes the process of bringing public art to our city seriously and enthusiastically,” says Public Art Commission Chair Nancy Stewart. “We endeavor to listen to residents and respond with uplifting art pieces such as these from Jim Merz.”
“I hope that the residents and visitors will welcome these additions to Lakeside Park and Shoaff Park,” said Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel. “We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with the artist and the Fort Wayne Public Art Commission to enrich park experiences with these dynamic sculptures.”
Following the unveiling at Lakeside Park, attendees were invited to travel to Shoaff Park to see the second sculpture.
The Public Art Commission and the Public Art Program was created in 2018 by the late Mayor Tom Henry and City Council. The Public Art Commission is tasked with commissioning, reviewing and selecting art to be displayed in public spaces with the goal to enhance the visual environment and strengthen the positive reputation, brand and stature of Fort Wayne and its neighborhoods. For more information on Fort Wayne’s Public Art Program, visit www.fwcommunitydevelopment.org/public-art.
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