Public Art at International Cove
Join in Support of ‘Starburst’ Public Art Installation in International Cove
"Starburst" will be a 15-foot-tall, illuminated sculpture designed as an iconic piece that visitors will pass through. The sculpture is a gift to the community from donors, facilitated by the Metroparks Toledo Foundation. The project is being coordinated by the Arts Commission.
The piece will be a feature of the International Cove area of Glass City Metropark, which will celebrate the people who came from many countries and established the Toledo community. The International Cove area is currently under construction and expected to open in spring 2026 on the site of the former International Park. It is part of the Glass City Riverwalk development, which will span both sides of the Maumee River between the Anthony Wayne Bridge and the Veterans Glass City Skyway.
The Cove and the art will be true to the original intention of International Park, which was established more than 40 years ago by Toledo's ethnic communities.
The sculpture is designed to honor the heritage of International Park and will include language collected from the local community that speaks to inclusivity, compassion, and understanding.
A gift from the family of late Yehia Hussein "John" Shousher, a well-known Toledo community member who was integral in the development of International Park, helped launch the project. Additional gifts are anticipated as fundraising continues.
Blessing Hancock is known for her monumental, site-specific works. The award-winning artist has created more than 60 public and private art pieces worldwide. Community engagement is at the heart of Hancock’s work, with each of her public projects featuring an element that connects the artwork back to the community where it is located.