Ormond Beach bids Seward Johnson status goodbye
Ormond Beach Locals@ormondbeachlocals
2 days ago
After six months on display in Ormond Beach, the beloved Seward Johnson statues are heading back to New Jersey. The sculptures, which have brought art and joy to the community, were carefully moved to their pickup locations in The Casements parking lot and the lot at 56 N Beach St.
"They are heading home! Our wonderful set of Seward Johnson statues are heading back to New Jersey after their six months here in Ormond Beach. Our fabulous sponsor Coleman Goodemote - with assistance from joemillersmulch - moved everything to their pickup spots in The Casements parking lot and the lot at 56 N Beach St. You can visit them one last time all grouped together in those lots before Friday morning.
No need to be too sad though. A new set of Seward Johnson sculptures will arrive in Ormond Beach in January 2026!
With your help and support we can continue bringing public art to the area. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, visit Ormondarts.com, become a sculpture sponsor, or just help support public art" - says Ormond Beach Arts District
Many residents took to social media to share their fondness for the statues, which have been a fixture in the city for the past six months.
Lynn McElroy: “They added so much to the culture of the walkway.”
Lori Campbell Baker: “They were awesome, thank you!”
The Sawman: “It was fantastic seeing this art around our town. Thank you!”
Geri Mitchell: “We really enjoyed finding all of them on our walks!”
Ruthie Wise: “My favorite was the mailman… you just wanted to stop and chat with him!”
Some, like Robin Magleora, even said the sculptures “always made me happy to look at.” Others, like Pam Pullen, expressed regret at missing them, while Jennifer Biretta Himmelstein shared, “Sad to see them go! They were a delight to pass by every day.”
While the current sculptures are leaving, Michelle Fathi reminded everyone that a “new set will be here next year!” The Ormond Beach Arts District has confirmed that another Seward Johnson collection will arrive in January 2026, keeping public art alive in the city.
Not all feedback was purely celebratory. Lisa Ann questioned, “WHO pays for them and transportation back and forth? Asking for a friend...” Meanwhile, Monte Cantrell compared Ormond Beach’s rotating exhibit to a similar long-term sculpture program in Vandalia, Ohio, where pieces have remained for over 15 years.
The statues are currently gathered at The Casements parking lot and 56 N Beach St. for a final viewing before their departure Friday morning.
#sewardjohnsonsculptures #ormondbeachartsdistrict #artiseverywhereyoulook #publicart #historicormondbeach #art
