A New Commemorative Sculpture called The Black Bridge Tree  proposed to the Town of Bracebridge by Kent and Kate Hammond, in memory of their 1-year-old son that passed from cancer February 2021, has been approved by the Public Art Advisory Committee, and is pending approval by Town Council.

The recommendation is that the 6.5 by 4.5-foot welded steel sculpture, commissioned by artist Hilary Clark Cole, be placed beside the existing plaque at the Black Bridge, on Matthiasville Road – a peaceful spot for people to sit and reflect upon the preciousness of life.

The family will incur the $10,000 cost of the sculpture, as a donation to the town, and the Town, as owners would be responsible for the estimated $2000-4000 costs associated with agreement legalities, installation, the plaque commemorating the donation, and potential future maintenance, outside of the free repairs offered by the artist.

Cole has offered to repair any future damage to the sculpture at no cost to the family or Town, unless she is unable to do so.

The benefits of public art to the community include, tourism, attractiveness, support and develop arts and culture, forge strong community partnerships with the public, non-profits and businesses.

The project aligns with the Public Art Policy of having a positive cultural impact, adding vitality to the community.