Caren-Marie Michel '78 (third from left), Project Manager, helps to cut the ribbon.
On Saturday, October 12, 2019 at 3pm, the ribbon was cut and the new Warren Memorial Sculpture Garden on Main Street in Westbrook, Maine, dedicated. MECA&D graduate and painter Caren-Marie Michel ’78, who is a long-time Westbrook resident, was an instrumental part of the project, which features the work of MECA&D alum Pat Plourde ’76 and former MECA&D Associate Professor Meg Brown Payson. As Program Manager, Caren-Marie worked with the City of Westbrook, who owns the pocket park in which the garden is located, as well as numerous local community members and businesses to bring the vision to reality. Supporters include landscape architect Peter Burke, Great Works Landscape, Cumberland Iron Works, Littlefield Gallery, June LaCombe Sculpture, Swenson Granite, O’Donal’s Nursery, Sappi Fine Paper North America, Discover Downtown Westbrook, Westbrook City Council, Westbrook Public Services, and the City of Westbrook.
Located in the thriving downtown area of Westbrook, the scenic garden, which features nine sculptures by Maine-based artists, is close to the public library and overlooks the Presumpscot river. The Warren Memorial Foundation funded the construction and sculpture acquisition to commemorate the Warren family name and their contributions to the City of Westbrook as a gift to the City. The Westbrook Arts and Culture group were also key partners. Other artists whose works are featured include Hugh Lassen, and Mark Herrington.
Creating a sculpture garden in this publicly owned green space has been perceived as an anchor to the burgeoning art and culture scene in a city that continues to enjoy significant growth in Southern Maine. The historic Dana Warp Mill is now home to many businesses, including designers and manufacturers of custom textiles, photographers, artists, fitness facilities, dance studios, and more.
(L-R): Caren-Marie Michel '78, Pat Plourde '76, Rachael O'Shaugnessy ’94, and John David O’Shaugnessy.
MECA&D former Assistant Professor Meg Brown Payson with her sculpture.
Top Image: Pinecones, 2019 by Pat Plourde '76