The River Wind sculpture is located on the bank of the Grand River along the Grand Haven Boardwalk. The article was originally posted on September 23, 2011 and updated on January 21, 2019.
“Iconic 'River Wind' sculpture christened Thursday in Grand Haven
GRAND HAVEN - The sculpture was installed last fall at the waterfront and was dedicated to the city of Grand Haven.
Then, the public was invited to offer up possible titles throughout the winter.
After many months of waiting, the name of Mike Westra’s street light-recycled, kinetic piece, was finally revealed during a naming and lighting ceremony Thursday.
The name was selected from nearly 100 public entries by representatives from Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (GHACF), North Ottawa Community Health System, and Grand Haven ArtWalk. The sculpture is now called, “River Wind.”
Not only did these groups choose the name, each one played an integral role in the sculpture’s creation and dedication.
“Our Board was thrilled to support these two stunning pieces of public art, said Ann Tabor, President of the foundation. “‘River Wind’ and ‘Lake Effect’ announce instantly to every boat coming in the channel and every visitor to the Boardwalk that Grand Haven in a creative community that values art and artists!”
The foundation granted $20,000 to help fund materials for the sculpture, lighting and construction of the artwork’s base. A portion of the donation also went toward the relocation and dedication of Lake’s Edge, a white seagull sculpture that was formerly on display in front of the County Courthouse in Grand Haven. An additional $10,000 was offered by the GHACF through the Marian A. and Ruth K. Sherwood Foundation.
North Ottawa Community Health System was also a major contributor to the River Wind sculpture production and installation.
“Our community is known far and wide for the quality of life that being surrounded by nature provides, " said Shelleye Yaklin, CEO of North Ottawa Community Health System. "As health care professionals, we know the water, the wind and the dunes have unique healing qualities ... and they also draw people to the outdoors, where they can be active. For us, this sculpture perfectly captured the spirit of wellness that makes our community so special. We are proud to be a part of its legacy to the community.”
With two iconic art sculptures in place along the waterfront, both dedicated during ceremonies sponsored by Grand Haven ArtWalk, the public will be able to enjoy these artworks for many years to come. Grand Haven ArtWalk has plans to continue adding permanent art installation in other areas of the city in the future.”
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