Contact: info@frederickartscouncil.org 301.662.4190
FREDERICK, MD – The Frederick Arts Council and the Town of Middletown, MD, has commissioned artist James Peterson for “Seed,” a public art gateway piece.
The Middletown Gateway Project creates a dynamic, welcoming visual landmark at the West entrance to downtown.. After a year-long process of community outreach, meetings between dedicated committee members, curatorial input, vigorous artist interviews, and partnerships, James Peterson was chosen from over 180 applicants.
Goals of this project include creating a striking public artwork at a key Middletown entrance; celebrating Middletown’s culture and history; engaging residents through participatory workshops; supporting artists and arts professionals; attracting visitors and enhancing economic vitality.
“The artwork is designed to reflect the community’s identity, history, and vision for the future. This installation will serve as a symbol of civic pride and artistic excellence The artwork is one in a series of commissioned Gateway pieces that welcome people to Frederick County and that help forge our identity in a way that is memorable and unique,” said Louise Kennelly, Executive Director of the Frederick Arts Council.
“We are excited to acquire “Seed” that points to Middletown’s agricultural roots and also lights the way toward Middletown’s dynamic future,” said John Miller, Burgess of Middletown.
The artwork will be installed at 650 West Main Street, Middletown, MD. As Middletown expands its boundaries with the recent acquisition of part of the Kimberly L. Harris property near the intersection of Old National Pike and Ivy Hill Drive, the town will seize the opportunity to create a dynamic welcoming impression to all those traveling in and out of Middletown at this highly visible location. This key gateway into downtown is seen by hundreds of commuters and visitors each day. The site will act as a visual anchor for Middletown’s placemaking efforts.
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026.
Thank you to our generous sponsors: Ausherman Family Foundation, Frederick County, Lancaster Craftsmen Builders, Middletown Valley Bank, Thompson Best Heating and Air Conditioning, Burgess John Miller, Draper & McGinley,Jerry and Beverly Donald, Sharon and Dan Kuebbing, Robert and Pam Robey.
Consider becoming a sponsor of this project to be included in current and future associated signage. FrederickArtsCouncil.org>Programs>Middletown Gateway.
About the Frederick Arts Council
The Frederick Arts Council invests in a vibrant and cohesive arts community for the people of Frederick County. The organization fosters an environment where the arts flourish in the community through grants and scholarships, arts advocacy, and links to essential resources. FAC is responsible for large-scale programming such as Sky Stage, Frederick Festival of the Arts, Art in the Park, the Public Art Initiative, and Frederick County’s Arts in Education grants. For more information about the Frederick Arts Council, visit www.frederickartscouncil.org.
FAC’s Vision for Public Art
Our vision is a Frederick where public art connects residents and visitors, expresses an authentic and unique sense of place, drives economic prosperity through creativity, and advances a culturally inclusive and empowered future.