It was a beautiful day as we sat at the location of the future “Spider Lily Sculpture” with Susan Moffat-Thomas. Susan updated us on the progress of the Swiss Bear Downtown Development Corporation’s “Spider Lily Sculpture” project.
Susan explained that Dr. Jim Congleton, the financial donor of this masterpiece, wanted to give a special gift to the city in remembrance of New Bern’s 300th Anniversary.
During a walk in September, Dr. Congleton passed the spider lily flowers in bloom and was inspired by their rich history in New Bern. Navy Captain William Roberts visited Japan in the 1800’s and returned with a few spider lily bulbs that he gave to his family. The bulbs were transplanted in New Bern and have been known as the “heirloom plant” of the South (reference).
Dr. Congleton commissioned renowned artist, Susan Pascal Beran, to create the sculpture. Susan is a distinguished artist whose masterpieces are on display in cities across the country to include the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.
Residents and visitors will have the opportunity to meet Susan Pascal Beran, tentatively scheduled for April 17, 2011, at the Spider Lily Sculpture’s location on the Riverwalk behind the New Bern Riverfront Convention Center.
Susan recognized and thanked members of the Swiss Bear’s Sculpture Committee “Let’s Put it in Stone” campaign: Leigh Wilkinson, Thea Kincaid, Beth Atkins, Judy Avery, John Ward, Shannon LuQuire, and Danielle Glynn.
Special thanks to Susan Moffat-Thomas, Swiss Bear’s Executive Director, and Thea Kincaid, the voice of New Bern Now for the special interview!
Please visit the Swiss Bear Downtown Development Corporation’s website for specific details about this one-of-a-kind project and to learn more about Swiss Bear’s history, current initiatives, and wonderful accomplishments they’ve spearheaded for our great city! Please call them at 252-638-5781 with any questions.
Wendy Card