Work Begins in Piedmont Arts’ Public Art Garden

Work began in the Piedmont Arts Public Art Garden today, with the removal of six Bradford pear trees that lined the garden’s border with Mulberry Road. The trees were removed to improve access and visibility into the garden.

“We are excited about the work taking place in the garden,” said Piedmont Arts Executive Director Kathy Rogers. “Today pear trees that line the Mulberry side of the garden space are coming down. This was necessary to open up the sight line of the garden and to prevent future potential damage to the artwork that will be placed in the garden space.”

“This is just the first step in creating a beautiful, open art garden to be enjoyed by the entire community,” she continued.

Rogers says more work will soon be underway in the garden. Paths for sidewalks have been laid out and local architect Conrad Knight and artist Beryl Solla are working on plans for the garden’s entry sign, which will be an art piece in itself.

In addition to the sign, three sculptures will be installed in the garden this spring: Four Seasons by Ed Dolinger of Bassett; LOVEwork ‘O’ by Jessie Ward of Martinsville; and Day In A Life by Mark Wright of Spotsylvania, who is originally from the area. 

“We are excited to share these works with the community,” said Piedmont Arts Director of Marketing, Communications and Design Bernadette Moore, who oversees the museum’s public art initiative. “We can’t wait until we begin installing the pieces so that the community can truly enjoy this beautiful public space.”