For artists and makers, the entertaining, informative, and inspirational story of a public art sculptor.

Nancy Schoen is the creator of the Make Way for Ducklings sculpture in the Boston Public Garden. Based on Robert McCloskey's beloved children's book, visited by many thousands of children and adults every year, the sculpture has become as familiar and beloved a Boston landmark as the swan boats and the gold dome of the State House.

Now Ms. Schoen tells the story of how the ducks came to Boston (along with the multiple political, artistic and personal challenges involved) as well as her other major public projects and commissions: how they came about, and who, and what, inspired them. She explains what goes into making a beautiful and tactile work of public art, from the wax maquettes to the casting in bronze, from dealing with budgets and logistics to the diplomacy required for dealing with public places and elected officials.

For any artist or activist looking to make a difference in the public square, this story demonstrates that drive and determination can overcome any roadblock and produce remarkable results.

About the Author
Nancy Schoen is a sculptor of internationally displayed art, but she is best known for her work in Massachusetts. She has six sculpture installations in Boston, including Make Way for Ducklings in the Public Garden and Tortoise and the Hare in Copley Square. She was educated at the Museum School in Boston.

Reviews

Praise for Make Way for Nancy

"A dual sense of joy and vitality pervades the pages, an impulse to create pieces that people, particularly children, can physically engage with, sit upon, and climb around." -The Boston Globe

Book Information
ISBN 9781567926064
Author Nancy Schn
Format Paperback
Page Count 128
Imprint David R. Godine Publisher Inc
Publisher David R. Godine Publisher Inc
Dimensions(mm) 251mm * 175mm * 10mm