Nearly 100 pieces of public art in Johnson City showcase 'creative identity'

Johnson City Public Art and the Public Art Committee consist of local artists, citizens and design professionals, all working toward the goal of displaying and maintaining public artworks in the city. The mission of Johnson City Public Art is to “enhance the livability and creative identity of the community through arts-based engagement with the public.” There are currently around 100 pieces displayed throughout the city and four exhibitions, not counting the permanent art gallery: the Phil Pindzola Biennial Sculpture Exhibition, Gallery on the Square, the JCPA Banner Exhibition and the Children's Banner Exhibition.

Some examples of the city's public art collection include: “Pioneer Family of Henry Massengill” — This is a large monument that sits at Winged Deer Park just across from the Robert E. Young Cabin, the oldest standing dwelling in Johnson City. The monument is part of a larger memorial, but the monument itself is the focal point.

Around its stone-crafted subjects is a family story told from the perspective of life accomplishments and genealogy. Recounting the history of the Massengill family, engravings in the stone describe how the Massengills are related to the area and the roles many of them served in the military. “Junaluska” — This sits near the entrance of Metro-Kiwanis Park.

The 30-foot chestnut oak carving honors Native Americans and was created in 1986 by sculptor Peter Wolf Toth. It is the 55th piece of the “Trail of the Whispering Giants.