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'Pinecone'

An eight-foot-long pine cone made out of 140 recycled steel shovels is an homage to Maine's state flower.

Portland, Maine

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Caroline
‘Pinecone’ in Deering Oaks Park celebrates artistry within the city and pays homage to the art community in Portland.   carofine / Atlas Obscura User
‘Pinecone’ in Deering Oaks Park celebrates artistry within the city and pays homage to the art community in Portland.   carofine / Atlas Obscura User
‘Pinecone’ in Deering Oaks Park celebrates artistry within the city and pays homage to the art community in Portland.   carofine / Atlas Obscura User
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Portland, Maine, is a quirky city known for its lobster, beer, and sprawling art scene. Eagle-eyed dwellers may notice murals, art installations and sculptures can be found scattered about, including a curious, oversized metal structure in the middle of the popular Deering Oaks Park. This sculpture depicts Maine's state flower: a white pine cone.

It was crafted from repurposed steel shovels by Maine artist Patrick Plourde, and donated to the public art permanent collection in tribute to Alice Spencer, founder of TEMPOArt—a local entity that supports temporary and permanent art installations throughout the city.

Pinecone serves to recognize Alice's contributions in establishing Portland as a city rich in public art.

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Public Art Art Outside Recycling Sculptures

Know Before You Go

The sculpture is strategically positioned near the base of towering pine trees, across the street from King Middle School.

Free parking is available surrounding the park, as well as paid meters.

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carofine

Published

October 15, 2024

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