By DAVID DUPONT
BG Independent News
Work will begin this coming week to prepare for the installation for the sculpture in the Wooster Green.
Former Mayor Dick Edwards, who is a member of the Wooster Green Steering Committee, said he has been in touch with Deedee Morrison the artist who is creating the sculpture, “Our Ties That Bind.”
He said as of two weeks ago, Morrison was nearing completion of the fabrication process of the 17-foot tall structure constructed from eight railroad curved railroad ties of varying heights. These represent “the pillars of the community.”
The ties were chosen because of the critical role the railroad played in developing the city.
Edwards said that it is uncertain when the fabrication will be completed and the sculpture shipped.
Assistant City Administrator Joe Fawcett told Edwards that it was expected that K&K Concrete will be able to pour the concrete base for the work the week of June 15. Also, city workers will be working concurrently on providing the necessary electrical hookups.
The sculpture will feature “choreographed LED lighting” illuminating the words that speak to the city’s heritage.
Those themes are: Great Black Swamp, Arts and Music, the Boom Town Era, Family Farming, Industry, Education, Wooster Green, and Faith.
Morrison’s concept was selected by a subcommittee chaired by Lori Young, of the BGSU School of Art.
The committee’ initial call for proposals drew 20 submissions. Those were then winnowed down to three finalists who made public presentations.
The project cost is $45,000 that comes from private donors.
The public was invited to vote on their favorite in an advisory ballot conducted over a week at the Wood County District Public Library. Of the 157 who voted, Morrison was the favorite. That coincided with the decision of the public art subcommittee, which had deliberated before the public votes were counted.
Edwards said a bronze plaque outlining the history of Wooster Green will soon be installed. This will serve “as a special ‘welcoming’ message.” A donor recognition plaque will also be installed later.
Wooster Green was most recently the site of Bowling Green High School, and then Bowling Green Junior High, until the new middle school was constructed. The building was torn down in 2012.
Edwards said it was uncertain when “the official Inauguration of the Wooster Green” will be able to take place.
The committee had hoped for late September or early October but that depends on COVID-19 guidelines.
