Newport plans for centennial celebration

Artists from around the world weighed in with ideas for the sculpture that will be the centerpiece of McFadden Square by the Newport Pier. Designs were submitted by 13 artists from places including Poland, Colombia and Eastbluff in Newport Beach.

The city of Newport Beach began planning a sculpture, walking path and benches in 2006 as part of the city’s centennial celebration. McFadden Square is integral to the city’s history as the site where the McFadden brothers operated a wharf in the late 1800s, ultimately leading to the founding of Newport Beach.

A committee of art professionals will judge the sculpture proposals and select three finalists. The city also is seeking donors for the project.

Their names will be inscribed in the granite benches around the art installation. For information call the city’s cultural arts coordinator Jana Barbier at (949) 717-3870.

— Alicia Robinson