Sculpture Park: Collaborations with Wheaton College

Linda and Ian Kabat, owners of a local business in Franklin (The Franklin Arts Center) and residents of Norton Massachusetts, connected the initial partnership and infrastructure between the Town of Franklin Administration, Department of Public Works and Kelly Goth a sculpture professor at Wheaton College.  Wheaton's dedication to supporting its students in the public art sector extends beyond the physical classroom. "The College seeks to enrich our indoor and outdoor public spaces through the exhibition of short term and long term installations. We believe in the power of public art to add aesthetic value, unite communities, and facilitate important conversations. This program is especially interested in supporting work that is designed with our campus in mind. Works may, for example, seek to engage with aspects of Wheaton identity through our history, architecture, landscaping, academics, athletics, etc."

Goth leads a public art related sculpture class bi-annually with students work finding their, "Long term" or "short term" home at the Franklin Sculpture Park. This partnership brings together students' fresh, creative perspectives and the park's commitment to enriching the local cultural landscape. Students in the class will design and install public art sculptures, providing them with invaluable real-world experience while enhancing the park's aesthetic appeal. This collaboration not only beautifies the community but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the arts, promotes educational opportunities, and strengthens the bond between the college and the Franklin community. By integrating academic innovation with community engagement, this initiative serves as a dynamic model for public art and community collaboration. 

Stay tuned for news about future collaborations, and more art to come from this partnership.

[Pictured, Maia Hayes painting the "Sister" sculpture located on Wheaton's campus. Image sourced from Wheaton College].