On Sunday, May 20, 2012 a larger-than-life sized painted bronze sculpture, Survival of Serena (Bronze) was unveiled at the newly redesigned and renovated Petrosino Square, in the SOHO section of New York City. One of the few designated ‘green spaces’ within several blocks, the recent installation will be the first of many under the city’s Parks & Recreation department’s “Art in the Parks” program. Sculptor, Carole Feuerman’s piece, a tranquil figure resting in a dripping inner tube, was selected to bring a touch of summer to the streets and neighborhoods of lower Manhattan and will remain on display until the end of September.

Jonathan Kuhn, Director of Art & Antiquities for New York City Parks & Recreation, speaking at the event, noted that Feuerman’s striking sculpture is part of a tradition of displaying temporary public art in the parks that originated in 1967, and affords numerous contemporary artists an opportunity to exhibit their work in what he termed “the outdoor gallery.” “Feuerman’s work exceeds the bounds of mere mimicry. It floats above the sidewalk with an aura of mystery—a fish out of water—and reminds us of our common experience and physicality.” Kuhn said.

The recent city-funded $2 million face-lift of newly-expanded Petrosino Square is the result of a community-based effort, led by Georgette Fleischer, founder of Friends of Petrosino Square, who lives within view of the once-neglected landmark. “We wanted to beautify the park so it could serve as a meeting place for residents and visitors to the neighborhood, alike. Setting aside a large, open spot at the northern end of the triangular space, away from trees and benches, serves as a high-visibility location for sculpture that will periodically be placed here by the city. It will be an exciting use for the historic space.”

Feuerman’s award-winning resin sculpture, Survival of Serena, for whom this bronze version is modeled after, has been displayed in locations as far-flung as Beijing and Venice; but she noted in her comments at the unveiling that “this new bronze version looks most at home right here in New York.”