Portsmouth NH 400 invites residents to visioning session with artist Sijia Chen
PORTSMOUTH — Sijia Chen, who has been selected by Portsmouth NH 400 to create the first sculpture for the city's Bohenko Gateway Park legacy sculpture garden, is about to launch her community engagement program.
Chen is visiting Portsmouth to meet with the City Council, the Portsmouth Arts & Nonprofits Committee, arts/culture/history organizations and the general public. Starting Monday, March 20, in partnership with Portsmouth community organizations, PNH400 will host a series of educational and interactive in-person and virtual events over the next several weeks. The effort is part of the city's 400th anniversary celebration in 2023.
The public is invited to participate in a free visioning workshop on Tuesday, March 21 at 6:30 p.m. in the Levenson Room of the Portsmouth Public Library.
Participants will have the opportunity to:• Learn about PNH400’s vision to establish a legacy of community enrichment and how this project spearheads that program.• Meet Chen, and learn about her work and concept titled, “Endeavor.”• Share their personal experiences and perspectives on Portsmouth’s rich and storied maritime heritage.• Connect with other Portsmouth residents and organizations, as part of the project’s mission to establish a platform for ongoing engagement in community-driven public art projects.For information, go to endeavorforportsmouth.com.
PNH400 has raised nearly $100,000 to cover the design, fabrication, transportation, documentation and installation expenses, including installation insurance. Additional sponsors are needed to complete this component and future additions to the PNH400 Legacy Project sculpture garden, which can accommodate six to eight pieces of public art. To learn more about this project, including how to donate, email sculpture@portsmouthnh400.org or visit portsmouthnh400.org.
This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Portsmouth NH residents invited for visioning with artist Sijia Chen
