In the summer of 2022 an RFP was released and by September over thirty artists, local and world-wide, submitted over forty proposals.  The selection review committee, chosen from our Seacoast community with expertise in sculpture, design, and public art, selected finalists in January 2023.  Their goal was to install at least one sculpture during Portsmouth's 2023 anniversary celebration. 

In March 2023 the final project was unveiled at a gathering of sponsors, artists, and community members at Rio Tequila Cantina, fittingly on the waterfront. The response was resoundingly positive! The tipping point was the community engagement component of Ms. Chen's project, Endeavor. 

About the Artist - Sijia Chen

From Ms. Chen's website:  "My work is an ongoing exploration of cultural heritage, documentation, and experimentation. Papercut, a traditional folk-art technique that has been practiced in my family for multiple generations, is the unifying element I employ throughout my canvas, sculpture, and public art works." 

How You Can Become Part of This Exciting Project

Consider making a donation! Depending on the donation level, all donors to the sculpture garden project will be recognized in many ways - including at the site, in media outreach, the PNH400 website, and at all sculpture garden events.

Attend one or more in a series of educational and interactive in-person and virtual events.  Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Learn about PNH400’s vision to establish a legacy of community enrichment, and how this project will spearhead its program
• Meet Ms. Chen, and learn about her work and concept titled Endeavor
• Share your personal experiences and perspectives on Portsmouth’s rich and storied maritime heritage
• Observe a papercut demo by Ms. Chen
• Connect with other Portsmouth residents and organizations, as part of the project’s mission to establish a platform for ongoing engagement and participation in community driven public works projects

Ms. Chen will be in Portsmouth from March 20 through 24, 2023 tomeet with local organizations, students at the Middle and High School, and the community at large.  The first open public event is March 21 from 6:30 p.m. in the Levenson Room at Portsmouth Public Library. MORE INFO COMING SOON!

 Here’s How the Projects Are Selected