Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Art topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council authorizes 'Goddess Freya' sculpture installation; public art committee chair to step down
Summary
Havre de Grace’s public art committee presented 'Goddess Freya' by Jackie Braaten as the selected sculpture to be installed in front of the Opera House; council authorized the installation agreement (calendar resolution 2024‑25) and Bill Watson said he will step down as public art committee chair at year‑end.
The Havre de Grace Public Art Committee and Arts Commission brought forward a proposed public sculpture for downtown installation and the council authorized its installation on Oct. 7.
Bill Watson, chair of the public art committee, described the selection process, the artist Jackie Braaten’s proposal titled "Goddess Freya," and the intended site in front of the Cultural Center/Opera House. Watson said the piece is metal, will develop a protective patina over time, sits on a concrete plinth 28 inches high supplied by the Department of Public Works, and is designed to be low‑maintenance and resistant to vandalism. He also said the mayor and staff reviewed and agreed on the committee’s top proposals.
Council introduced and then adopted calendar resolution 2024‑25 authorizing an agreement for installation, maintenance and ownership of the sculpture; the vote was 6‑0 by roll call. Watson also announced he will step down as committee chair at the end of the year but said he will remain active with public art efforts.
What’s next: DPW and the Arts Commission will finalize installation logistics and an October installation and dedication window was discussed in the presentation remarks.
