Have you recently done a double-take walking into town, wondering how that man by the War Memorial is sitting perfectly motionless, or thinking you saw Rosie the Riveter holding her signature pose in town? Don’t worry, Rosie is not on tour, and you certainly aren’t alone. These two are a part of a six-piece public art installation celebrating the Watertown Foundation’s 100th anniversary.
On August 2, 2025, the Foundation launched its centennial year by unveiling one of six statues created by the late sculptor Seward Johnson. The Foundation curated works from his collections “Icons Revisited” and “Celebrating the Familiar,” which exemplify his mastery of capturing the beauty of everyday life and the American spirit through both ordinary and historical figures. Not only that, Johnson has encapsulated the human spirit so well that the Watertown police once received a call about someone in town in need of a welfare check (spoiler: it was just a statue).
As of now, all six figures are on display, scattered across Watertown and Oakville. Originally, the Foundation intended to raise awareness for the Foundation’s 100-year history and its continual support for local organizations and individuals. Together, they foster historical reflection, spark community connection, and add a touch of humor to daily routines. Watertown Foundation Trustee Tina Agati explained their hope “that the sculptures would be a fun way for families and friends to connect outdoors while experiencing art up close.” And according to feedback they have received, their expectations have been exceeded. According to the “Seward Johnson Driving Tour” map, the display points are:
- “Inner World Outer World” (2014), a man reading his “Town Times” newspaper outside the Watertown Library
- “Return Visit” (1991), President Lincoln tipping his hat to a passerby at Town Hall
- “Can Do!” (2015), Rosie the Riveter striking her signature flexing pose on Main Street, welcoming visitors and residents
- “Far Out” (1975), a sitting man pondering in front of the gazebo by the war memorials, honoring our veterans
- “Who’s in Charge” (1991), depicting an elderly man carrying a child on his shoulders at the Veterans Memorial Park
- “Midstream” (1987), a fisherman casting his line at the Oakville Green.
The Watertown Foundation, which provides scholarships to graduating seniors and grants to local non-profit organizations, also works to strengthen the community through projects like this. In her welcome speech, Foundation trustee Susan Atkins introduced the lively exhibit as a way to “bring our
community together, to celebrate the good things, the good people, and the good places in our town and, of course, to have fun.” Agati also highlighted the Foundation’s strengthening of ties with local organizations like the Watertown Library Association, History Museum, Parks & Recreation Department, and local veterans’ groups, and urged the Taft community to follow in their footsteps and do the same.
Although the exhibit is unfortunately temporary and will only be up through October, there is no better time than now to enjoy it! While the weather is still pleasant and school work hasn’t yet reached a frenzy, gather some friends and take a stroll. You can either make a game out of it and play detective, or if you are of the less whimsical sort, pick up a copy of the Seward Johnson Driving Tour map and follow the trail.
