To the Editor,
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of an internationally recognized icon of sculpture and local hero of the arts, Seward Johnson, Jr.
Seward established the Johnson Atelier in Hamilton NJ, which operated from 1974 to 2004, for fabricating his sculptures. The Atelier was an incubator for experimentation and helped expand the careers of many artists. In 1984, Seward created the beloved Grounds for Sculpture, a 42-acre sculpture park on a former fairground in Hamilton.
Seward’s contributions to the greater art world and our community are profound and innumerable. With great acclaim, Seward received the International Sculpture Center’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019.
On a personal note, I was always amazed at Seward’s humility and generosity of spirit. His support encouraged and propelled the careers of so many artists. Seward was a man with a wild curiosity, a fun spirit, and a love of life. We will miss seeing his smiling face around town and hearing his booming voice at holiday sing-a-longs.
Our deepest condolences go to Cecilia, his family, and his many colleagues. Seward will be fondly remembered and truly missed.
Carol Lipson
Hopewell Valley Arts Council, Executive Director
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