NEWPORT, R.I. — A mother-baby elephant sculpture pair has taken up residence at Aquidneck Park, marking a permanent addition to the city’s public art collection.
The sculptures, donated by organizers of last summer’s Great Elephant Migration exhibit, were installed on the Bowery Street side of the park near Spring Street. The city announced the installation on social media Wednesday.
The elephants are positioned in the shadow of the Newport Public Library and join existing park amenities including the Martin Recreation Center and Edward King House Senior Center.
The Great Elephant Migration, which drew significant crowds to Newport last summer, featured life-sized elephant sculptures created by indigenous artisans. The exhibit aimed to raise awareness about human-elephant conflict and conservation efforts.
Art & Newport, the organization behind the original exhibition, donated the sculptures to the city. Newport’s Public Services team handled the installation.
The sculptures represent the latest addition to Newport’s growing collection of public art installations throughout the city.