Form follows function in the newest installation of art in public places stone benches being installed on the Edward B. Knight White Street Pier. This amazing project by sculptor Craig Berube-Gray is being fully funded by community donations – and the cement from old curbing. Each bench is created out of repurposed stone curb from Key West’s streets.
Each of the benches bears an inscribed granite plaque with a dedication for the organization or individual that funded the bench.
Several have already been installed, and there will eventually be 20 benches on the pier, providing a relaxing place to watch sunrises as well as sunsets. According to Berube-Gray, there are currently only five benches left to be purchased.
This project is among several generated by the Mayor’s Beatification Committee.
Berube-Gray notes that the estimated lifespan of the benches is between 100 and 500 years. In recent years, the City has struggled with providing seating that can withstand the salt and sun that inundate this locals’ favorite location. These should do the trick!