Facing a capacity crowd of over 100, renowned sculptor Sassona Norton shared insights about her sculptures and the importance of monuments. The 9/11 Memorial that Norton installed in Pennsylvania made her acutely aware of the role public-art takes in our life. She explained that monuments form a critical bridge – not only honoring those who directly experienced the event but also serving as a catalyst to memory, providing a tangible link so that future generations might think and understand the impact of that event and the effects on subsequent lives.
It was exciting to hear Norton tell the story of the 9/11 Memorial that propelled her to recently embark on planning a Hurricane Sandy monument to celebrate people’s strength against crisis. Her slide-show and a short movie about the 9/11 Memorial detailed the daunting and complex process involved in producing such a massive bronze monument. She also unveiled her plan for an incredible, dynamic and huge monument to Hurricane Sandy. Installed at the Hudson Waterfront, the monument will combine a sculpture of very large hands and a dramatic water-theater. On a clear day, it will be seen from as far as Lower Manhattan.
Morris Arts is grateful to Dick Eger, former Chair of the Morris Arts Board (and longterm board member) for his generous support of this event.
Photos from the evening:
Dick Eger introducing Sassona Norton
Sculptor Sassona Norton with Anne Aronovitch, former Morris Arts Executive Director
Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty with sculptor Sassona Norton
Cardiologist Dr. Audrey von Poelnitz with breast surgeon, Dr. Kathleen Ruddy
Ron Filler with Steve Miller, Executive Director of Boscobel (former Executive Director, Morris Museum)
artists Dorothy and David Clair
Morris Arts Board members Susan Budd, Dr. Kathleen Ruddy with David Budd