Sunday, June 8, 2025
Something Striking in the Center of Newburyport: SailTrace
Last week, my District Liaison and Legislative Aide Kristin McDonald attended the ceremonial ribbon cutting for ‘SailTrace’, a striking new public art installation by Portland, Maine, artist Aaron T. Stephan.
Hosted by Mayor Sean Reardon and the Newburyport Public Art Committee (PAC), the event marked the official unveiling of this maritime-inspired sculpture, now featured in Market Landing Park.
‘SailTrace’ evokes the form of a clipper ship’s billowing sails, crafted from perforated aluminum and stainless-steel cables, and will be illuminated by night—creating a dynamic new presence along Newburyport’s waterfront.
Following a competitive and well-publicized 'Call for Artists' in early 2024, Stephan was unanimously selected from a pool of 21 applicants for this project. With a strong record of more than 30 large-scale public art installations across the country, his collaboration with the City and the PAC has brought a powerful and engaging piece to life.
Congratulations to all involved in bringing ‘SailTrace’ to Newburyport. Public art like this enhances our public spaces, fosters community identity, and connects us to our shared maritime heritage.
