News Photo by Reagan Voetberg Artist Ann Gildner speaks to community members beside her sculpture “The Eagle has Landed” after the sculpture dedication ceremony at the Alpena County Courthouse on Wednesday.

ALPENA — Sestercentennial celebrations began Wednesday in Alpena with the dedication of two new sculptures at the Alpena County Courthouse and Alpena City Hall.

The sculpture at the Courthouse was created by artist Ann Gildner. It is called “The Eagle has Landed.”

Tim Kuehnlein, Thunder Bay Arts Council first vice president, spoke about the new addition to Art Vision Alpena and the Alpena Bi-Path.

“Today we have well over 100 installations of historic and artistic significance, cultural significance, all along the 20 miles Bi-Path throughout our city and our community,” Kuehnlein said.

He said that over 20 sculptures have been added since the beginning of Art Vision Alpena in 2017. “The Eagle has Landed” and Autumn Bildson’s “In the Eye of the Beholder” in front of City Hall are the last two installments of that project. Depending on how you do the estimates, Art Vision Alpena has created over $250,000 of added value to the aesthetics of Alpena.

Kuehnlein said that the sculpture’s location at the courthouse will be called Fremont Park, a nod to the past name of the city before it was designated Alpena in 1871.

Gildner’s sculpture is 2300 pounds of raw metal. It consists of stainless steel and brass, as well as raw steel. It features over 600 individually welded feathers, Kuehnlein said.

“I was absolutely thrilled when I was called and asked to draw some pictures up to be one of the sculptors,” Gildner said.

She said her journey into art and welding began at Alpena Community College and Moran Iron Works.

“I just love going into the studio, making things, and I just think it’s been a wonderful experience,” Gildner said.

Alpena County Board of Commissioners Chairman John Kozlowski also said a few words at the dedication.

“Today we gather not only to dedicate a remarkable new work of art, but also honor the legacy of a place that brought generations of people together…the Alpena Bi-Path,” he said.

Kozlowski said that it is fitting for the anniversaries of the Alpena Bi-Path and the founding of the United States to be commemorated through public art.

“Public art has a unique ability to tell stories without speaking a word. It reminds us of where we came from, it celebrates who we are, it inspires future generations to dream about what comes next,” Kozlowski said.

After the sculpture dedication at the courthouse, the festivities moved to City Hall for a picnic with apple pie and hot dogs.

Bildson’s sculpture, “In the Eye of the Beholder,” was also dedicated following a reading of the Declaration of Independence by Kuehnlein on the steps of City Hall.

City Manager Rachel Smolinski spoke about the history of the Bi-Path as a lasting public investment rather than a one time memorial.

“(It was) designed to promote recreation, accessibility, and community connection,” Smolinski said. It links neighborhoods, parks, natural areas, and civic spaces…Originally known as the Alpena sculptured walkway bikeway and later named the Bi-path by a local school program, the trail has become an integral part of our daily life…a symbol of the community’s commitment to public space, quality of life, and cultural engagement.”

Bildson spoke about her inspiration for “In the Eye of the Beholder.”

“The Thunderbird is a powerful symbol of Native American traditions representing strength, protection, and nature,” Bildson said. “As I worked on this sculpture, I wanted to reflect on the values that have guided my life. Within the sculptures are symbols representing happiness, everlasting life, wisdom, friendship.”

“Much of the inspiration comes from my grandmother,” she continued. “She taught me that every person deserves respect, kindness regardless of who they are or where they come from.”

Bildson thanked the City of Alpena, the donors and supporters, and everyone who helped make the sculpture project possible.