Mermaid of the Moment: Sea Bench by Shelly Bradbury

Sea Bench by Shelly Bradbury, Bronze, 2008.

On a recent trip to Gloucester I stopped by the Cape Ann Museum. In their outdoor courtyard I was drawn to this remarkable piece: a bronze bench adorned with various sea creatures, two mermen, dolphins, coral and a lovely female face in the centerpiece.

Sea Bench by Shelly Bradbury, Bronze, 2008.

The bench was created by sculptor Shelly Bradbury in 2008. It is on loan at the Cape Ann Museum from the Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center.

Sea Bench by Shelly Bradbury, Bronze, 2008.

Here are the two mermen and some other details. Mermen are an uncommon design element, but their strong shoulders seem fitting to hold up the bench's net-like seat.

Sea Bench by Shelly Bradbury, Bronze, 2008.

Sea Bench by Shelly Bradbury, Bronze, 2008.

Sea Bench by Shelly Bradbury, Bronze, 2008.

 

If you're heading to Gloucester, MA or the Cape Ann Museum, be sure to take a moment to enjoy this beautiful and functional sculpture.