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Public Art Program

The Arts Commission is dedicated to providing three-dimensional works of art to be placed in public areas throughout the City. 

Robert’s Rock

Atlanta-based artist Zachary Coffin is known for his "spinning rocks" - huge boulders that appear to float over the ground.  Using precision engineering for the supporting cylinders and bearings, these natural sculptures are smooth and silent when spinning.  Installed in Ford Field in August, 2006, the piece was generously donated by the Van Buren family with the intent of creating a beautiful and interactive space for the citizens of Northville, especially children.

“Treble Clef”

Missouri artist Charles Strain’s elegant, stylized musical symbol impressed the jury and was selected over several outstanding candidates. “Treble Clef”, a bronze sculpture (approximate dimensions 6’x6’x6’), was installed at the bandshell on May 28, 2002. The Treble Clef has been re-installed and is located in Town Square toward the back

“Treble Clef” by Charles Strain

“Engauged”

In 2003, local resident Mary Ware approached the NAC with a generous offer to purchase a sculpture for the City of Northville, with the intent of placing it at the Northville Public Library.  Needless to say, both the NAC and the Library were thrilled with this opportunity.  Thanks to Mary, this delightful, whimsical piece made of found metal objects now has a permanent home in the Library.  Traines is a sculptor who divides her time between Michigan and Florida.

“Coasting the Base Line”

Ever wonder what that black and white obelisk is near Hillside Middle School, near Center and Eight Mile Road? 

Although world renowned artist David Barr has lived in the Northville / Novi area for many years, until last year, none of his pieces – save the uncredited “Boy With a Hoop” at Mill Race - graced the City.  However, you could find his works in far-flung places like Siberia and Italy, as well as Hart Plaza in Detroit.

We decided to ask this talented artist to craft a piece that expressed some aspect of Northville’s history.   We then learned about the importance of Base Line Road (in many places Eight Mile), which stretches across the state.  According to Barr, “surveyors walked this line before the Civil War. Eight Mile has long been a symbol of distinction. These surveyors completed their work between 1815 and 1851 and also mapped out the Meridian, a north-south axis.   Michigan townships were then plotted off the grid system created by these axes.   Northville was originally included in “Town One South, Range Eight East”.

The surveying of Michigan was also of national significance.  Thomas Jefferson believed that all people could own land.  While we take this for granted now, in his day that represented the clash of four principles – the European aristocratic model, in which the King owned everything; the colonial model, in which people could use land but didn’t own it; the Native American model, in which land could not be owned; and of course, Jefferson’s model.  In the early days of the nation, Michigan was the first state that “got it right” with respect to surveying and served as a model for other states.

With this realization, Barr and the Arts Commission decided to create a historical monument to recognize the importance of surveying in the creation of the state and the townships along Base Line. All four of the property models discussed above would be represented with quotes. They would also reserve space on the monument for engravings that related to specific events and people in Northville’s history.  The hope was that such a monument would serve as an educational tool for students and citizens.

“Northville Art House Sign”

Made from found metal, this impressive piece by Paul Vertrees serves as both a work of art and a welcome sign to the Art House at 215 W. Cady Street.  Paul is a former Assistant Director of Public Works for the City of Northville, who now works as an artist in the area.  NAC Commissioner and artist Darcel Deneau contributed to the original design of the piece.