Ocean Springs, Miss. (WLOX) — A new three-dimensional shearwater bird sculpture now stands at the entrance to Ocean Springs at the end of the Biloxi Bay Bridge, unveiled today as part of the city’s Gateway Sculpture Project.
The project was a result of the partnership between the City of Ocean Springs and the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, funded through Mississippi legislation. It’s meant to stand as a symbol for the city, representing its culture, arts, history and community.
The project was a result of the partnership between the City of Ocean Springs and the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, funded through Mississippi legislation.(wlox)Inspiration rooted in community
Walter Anderson Museum of Art Strategic Director Julian Rankin said the inspiration for the shearwater bird comes from within the community.
“That’s homage to Shearwater Pottery, an almost hundred-year-old small business now. Also, the Peter Anderson Arts and Crafts Festival shares that logo,” Rankin said.
Walter Anderson Museum of Art Strategic Director Julian Rankin said the inspiration for the shearwater bird comes from within the community.(wlox)
The project has been four years in the making. Ocean Springs Mayor Bobby Cox said it’s a perfect representation of what the city is: arts, culture and community.
With Cruisin’ the Coast coming up, he said he’s excited for the hundreds of tourists to see it.
“I think it’s perfect timing with the visitors coming in. You’re going to see cruisers parking here and taking pictures in front of this sign, and I think it’s going to continue for years to come,” Cox said.
With Cruisin’ the Coast coming up, he said he’s excited for the hundreds of tourists to see it.(wlox)
State Rep. Hank Zuber played a role in helping bring the gateway sculpture through legislation. He said he’s excited for the impact it will make on a wide scale.
“It’s not just an image and a gateway for Ocean Springs. It’s a gateway for the entire nation to see Mississippi in a different light and in a different way,” Zuber said.
City leaders announced at the unveiling that a gateway sculpture in East Ocean Springs is also in the works.
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