18th Annual Nashua International Sculpture Symposium

The Nashua International Sculpture Symposium is an annual community event designed to elevate the awareness and appreciation of public art in Nashua. Through its unique format, the Symposium allows Nashua residents and visitors the dynamic opportunity to engage directly with guest sculptors from around the world and experience ‘art in the making’. Nashua has the distinction of being the only city in the U.S. which hosts an annual international sculpture symposium. This collaborative, three-week public event celebrates cultural exchange and diversity through creation and sharing. Curiosity and understanding are nurtured via the day-to-day interactions with our visiting artists.

Since 2008, guest artists from around the world have created 52 different sculptures which are permanently installed throughout the city. These large, stone or metal outdoor sculptures stand in a variety of public spaces including downtown Nashua, schools, parks, neighborhoods, walking trails, and riverfront paths. They incorporate Art as Everyday Living, enhancing the quality of life for New Hampshire citizens daily, and actively contribute to Nashua’s identity as a vibrant arts community.

Exploring this year’s theme “In The Making”, our sculptors are Valerie Funk, Germany; Danaë LeBlond- Joris, France; Yunmi Lee, South Korea/Italy; and Casey Schachner, US. After working for three weeks in the public eye, these artists will gift their sculptures to the city of Nashua to become part of its permanent collection. These new pieces will be celebrated at the Closing event on May 31, 2025. To better inform this year’s theme, the Symposium is intentionally highlighting community connections with children and youth, seeking partnership with interested schools and organizations.
 
There are many opportunities for individuals and families to get involved in a meaningful way and to become part of this legacy of sculpture in Nashua. Visit the Picker Artists Studios and attend both the Opening Celebration on May 8 at 5:30 PM and the Closing Celebration on May 31 at 1:00 PM, visit the sculptors as they work from May 12 to May 28. Sign up to bring a meal on the website, or volunteer for a more personalized experience. As a non-profit organization, the Nashua International Sculpture Symposium also seeks like-minded sponsors and donors who want to invest in the cultural, social, and economic value to our community enlivened through public art.
 
View all of Nashua’s permanent sculpture installation locations online. Tours of the sculptures are provided upon request.
 
For more information:         NashuaSculptureSymposium.org