29 Oct Petoskey Adding Art Installations Near Wheelway

Shared experiences, enhanced sense of place, and community pride are all benefits of public art installations. They can increase tourism while helping burnish a community’s identity.

Last year, the City of Petoskey Art Commission took a bold step when it commissioned a native species fish mural in the pedestrian underpass at Bayfront Park.

This colorful bit of civic artwork, located just off the Little Traverse Wheelway, has enjoyed immense positive feedback from visitors and residents alike, according to Petoskey Mayor John Murphy. Next spring the City will unveil two more public art installations at Bayfront Park, and both are also near the Wheelway.

A large bronze sculpture (above, by Gillie and Marc) of a deer and rabbit sitting on a park bench will be unveiled across from the waterfall on the lake side of East Bayfront Drive.

Another bronze sculpture – this one featuring a horse (right) by late Petoskey sculptor Stanley Kellogg, will be located just east of the Little Traverse History museum.

Mayor Murphy said the newly formed Art Commission, excited by the public’s positive response to the fish mural project, is eager to “grow art” in Petoskey. “Let’s let it grow,” he said.

Trails Council Executive Director Brent Bolin said he loves the addition of public art so close to the Wheelway. “As if the Little Traverse Wheelway wasn’t popular enough, we’re now seeing truly excellent artwork being added,” Bolin said. “Trail-side art installations add great texture and they really enrich the experience for trail users.”

Murphy said the Art Commission walked Bayfront Park to determine the very best locations for the exhibits, which will be unveiled next spring.