Lewes public art reception to celebrate new installation April 25

Six kinetic sculptures by Baltimore artist Paul Daniel will soon be installed throughout George H.P. Smith Park in Lewes.

These artworks are brought to Lewes by the City of Lewes Public Arts Committee, the generous support of the Delaware Division of the Arts, and donations from the Lewes community.

Named for a dedicated former five-term Lewes mayor, the community park consists of a peaceful pond with a picnic pavilion, a playground and a loop trail.

“The committee is so excited to bring these new, contemporary artworks to Lewes, and see how community and environment interact with them,” said Heidi Lowe, Lewes PAC chair.

A reception for the public art installation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, April 25, at the Rollins Community Center, where the public is welcome to celebrate the unveiling of these new outdoor sculptures and meet the artist.

The metal sculptures are designed to interact with the elements and environment in various ways, whether by using natural air currents to move kinetic elements, the water to buoy a floating sculpture, or the sunlight to create morphing shadows as the sun rises and sets, or using physicality to frame, highlight or mask some of the surrounding landscape.

The installation will reach younger viewers with kids' classes instructed by the Rehoboth Beach Historical Society & Museum staff.

Students ages 7-10 will walk through the park to see the sculptures, journal their experiences and create their own small kinetic projects inspired by Daniel’s work. Sessions will be offered from 10 to 11:30 a.m., Thursdays, during June, July and August for $5 per student.

For class registration, go to rehobothbeachmuseum.org.