Monumental Among Us in Downtown Albany

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Whispering Close by Seward Johnson

ALBANY, NY (06/14/2010)(readMedia)-- Today the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) has installed the first of 17 bronze sculptures by artist Seward Johnson placed strategically around downtown Albany for the 2010 Sculpture in the Streets public art exhibit. Notably the first sculpture installed is a two-story tall piece entitled, "Whispering Close" based on Pierre-Auguste Renoir's "Dance in the City" and recalling an elegant and romantic era in Albany's history. Omni Development Company, Inc., long-time Sculpture in the Streets supporter, is this year's presenting sponsor of Sculpture in the Streets and sponsor of this particular piece. "Whispering Close" can be found in Federal Plaza – the intersection of Broadway, Clinton Avenue and North Pearl Street - for the duration of the exhibit which runs from June 18th through October 2010. The remaining pieces will be installed June 15-17, 2010. A complimentary walking tour map of sculpture placements will be available beginning on Monday, June 21st at various locations around Downtown Albany. Visit the Downtown Albany BID website for locations or to download a copy.

The 2010 Sculpture in the Streets exhibit will kick-off with the annual Garden Party fundraising event held at Federal Plaza Park on June 18th from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. The party features cuisine compliments of Angelo's 677 Prime, wines from Empire Wine & Liquor, music by Keith Pray's Soul Jazz Revival, and a silent auction. Tickets for the party can be purchased online at downtownalbany.org, for $50 per person ($65 day of the event).

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The Downtown Albany BID, incorporated in 1996, is a private, not-for profit 501 (c) (3) organization that works to restore, promote and maintain the character and viability of downtown Albany and to improve the quality of life and overall image of downtown for all those who work in, live in and visit the Capital City. There is ample public parking in downtown Albany: metered parking is free after 6 p.m. on weekdays and all weekends. For information about the Downtown Albany BID, call (518) 465-2143, visit downtownalbany.org, become a Fan on Facebook and follow Albany Bid on Twitter.