Bird by Bob Shannahan at the Sculpture Walk, Harvard, MA

This summer, I undertook a big project. I organized a juried exhibition in my local nature preserve. When Southborough Open Land Foundation asked me to mount a show four years ago for their 25th Anniversary Celebration, it was informal. This year, I wanted to create a sustainable program that would draw professional artists and poets, so I spoke with several people who have experience with public installation programs. 

First, I went to see Linda Hoffman, Artist and Orchardist at Farm at Old Frog Pond in Harvard, Massachusetts. Set on 25 acres of land surrounding a pond, she has an apple orchard, walking trails, and many wonderful art installations. Every year, she invites artists to install work on the property and, each September, she hosts a Sculpture Walk, along with apple and raspberry picking, and a live band. This year’s event had perfect weather and a big crowd. The work was diverse and remarkable, spanning from metal butterflies to a giant bird, to miniature bronze people perched on rocks. In all, there are 40 pieces in this year’s show, and additional permanent installations. Next week, the farm will host a Plein Air Poetry Walk, in which poets read work written in response to the art. More information.

NEW member Jeanne Borofsky with her work at Farm at Old Frog Pond Sculpture Walk.