Bluffton public art sculpture unveiled at Welcome Center

The Town of Bluffton unveiled a new public art sculpture Oct. 24th at the Squire Pope Carriage House in Wright Family Park, marking the Public Art Committee’s first permanent installation since the committee formed in October 2023 to implement Town Council’s public art policy.

The piece by artist Brandy Scholl was selected through a competitive process managed by the Public Art Committee after a June 2024 call invited four pre-approved artists to submit designs. The committee chose Scholl’s proposal unanimously for its thoughtful interpretation of Bluffton’s setting and heritage.

The steel, spherical sculpture includes laser-cut illustrations of the May River, native wildlife and figures from Bluffton’s past, including the Wright family and the Gullah Geechee community. It sits on a concrete base etched with the outline of the May River.
“Public art connects people to place,” Mayor Larry Toomer said at the unveiling. “This sculpture is more than a visual piece—it tells Bluffton’s present and past story and reflects our community’s character throughout time.”

Scholl said the work was designed to interact with its surroundings. “Its reflective stainless steel surface mirrors the people and landscape around it, creating a dynamic interaction that changes with time, light and perspective,” she said. “I wanted to capture what makes Bluffton special — a place that honors its history, treasures its natural beauty and keeps a strong sense of community at its heart.”

Town Manager Stephen Steese said the installation underscores Bluffton’s long-term commitment to cultural investment. “This piece embodies what Bluffton values most—our connection to the river, our respect for history and our shared future,” Steese said. “Public art enhances public spaces and gives residents and visitors new ways to experience Bluffton.”

The sculpture cost $30,800 and was approved by Town Council following the committee’s recommendation. It is installed outside the Squire Pope Carriage House, 111 Calhoun St., which houses the town’s Welcome Center. The ribbon cutting took place Friday, Oct. 24th, at 9 a.m.

The Public Art Committee continues to identify opportunities for artwork in parks, public buildings and gathering spaces across Bluffton. For information about the artist roster or upcoming calls for art, contact Felicia Roth at froth@townofbluffton.com.