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Nine Seward Johnson sculptures installed in downtown Trenton

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Nine works by internationally known sculptor Seward Johnson were installed in locations in the heart of downtown Trenton on May 4.

The life-sized bronze cast sculptures, on loan from Seward Johnson Atelier through October, celebrate “the familiar,” a recurring theme in Johnson’s work. Walk through downtown Trenton, and you will find sculptures of people doing ordinary, everyday things, like reading a local newspaper or taking pictures.

Yet, there is nothing ordinary about Johnson’s work and legacy. Born in New Brunswick, N.J., Johnson, who founded the Grounds for Sculpture, is best known for such gigantic and iconic works as “Embracing Peace,” “Awakening” and “Forever Marilyn,” as well as hundreds of figures engaged in relatable, day-to-day activities.

Trenton Downtown Association received a contribution of $6,500 from Isles in support of the installation.

The Trenton Downtown Association is planning a series of activities to promote the exhibition and engage Trenton’s vibrant art scene. But, for now, they welcome the public to come downtown to see the exhibit.

“We chose locations in front of key areas, all within a short walk of each other, to encourage reactions and conversations,” said Bryan Evans of the TDA board of directors. “People are posing for selfies with the sculptures and just generally having fun.”

See if you can find all nine Seward Johnson sculptures on display in front of such spots as Starbucks on Warren Street, Mill Hill Park, the Lafayette Garage Plaza, Passage Theatre, City Hall and Maestro Technologies. And don’t forget to tag TDA on Facebook and Instagram.


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