Sometimes art is a physical endeavor. While a google search for “art” reveals an overwhelming bias towards two dimensional art, we all instinctively know that that the art world encompasses so much more–it is not just a labor of love but often a labor of the hands.

Public art is just starting to get recognized in its own right. I’m not talking about Banksy, but ways that communities and neighborhoods can really demonstrate their own unique personalities and make statements about who they are and the values they hold. Last week I had the pleasure of documenting the installation of two pieces of public art in Wheaton, Maryland as part of Picture Wheaton project. Rather than just share the finished product, I wanted to acknowledge and celebrate the physical work that is required to make these pieces a reality.

On a Monday I made some images of the installation of the final two 7’ mosaic medallions on the former Wheaton clock tower. This wraps a four year project by local non-profit Arts on the Block, which saw the creation and installation of 44 smaller medallions, as well as the four large medallions on the historic Wheaton landmark. The second installation began promptly at 4 am on Thursday. I assume it was prompt, because I arrived at 4:25 and the damn thing was already in place. I slept in (3:55 am) and missed the money shot. Beginning a shoot in darkness and watching the sky very gradually brighten as a fog rolls in is the kind of situation I’ve missed documenting since COVID came to town. Just being up, focused and present, as something unfolds is addictive. Big congratulations to artists Adrienne Mounin, Eric R. Ricks, and Nori Sato, as well as the Metal Arts Foundry in Lehi, Utah and thanks to the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County for supporting the arts.

A community lives with its public art. And, just like living partners, they make impressions on each other over the course of time–wearing, inspiring, smoothing, informing–all while evolving and growing together. I am excited to document these pieces of art together with the community they live in.