CNBNews

The monument was erected in Proprietor's Park, King Street, and Jersey Avenue near the Betsy Ross Pavilion (CNBNews photo)

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ(October 3, 2022)(CNBNewsnet)--The unveiling of "The Wave" took place on Saturday during the City's "Pack the Park Fall Festival" held at Proprietors Park. It was dedicated to former Mayor William James, who passed away in 2019. He served three full terms (12 years) and was the longest-serving Mayor in the history of Gloucester City. In 2005 James retired after 25 years from the Gloucester City police department.

New York-based artist Winter Willoughby-Spera designed the monument. "The Wave" showcases hundreds of fish sculptures  painted by residents of all ages in response to the prompt: "What does Gloucester City mean to  you?" The fish are symbolic of each citizen's story, forming "The Wave" that represents the legacy of Gloucester's historic waterfront and the promise of the city's future in its community. It was created in partnership with the Hearth Community Fund.

According to the City's press release, "In 2015, Willoughby-Spera envisioned visitors approaching an installation that celebrates  Gloucester City's history as a fishing village (as depicted in the famous Thomas Eakins painting  — "The Shad Fisherman") while looking through the glass shoal of colorful fish to the modern skyline of the city's harbor. Now, in 2022, Willoughby-Spera sees a new meaning for the new city landmark. After years of the pandemic and unforeseen obstacles, "The Wave" is a  reminder of the city's resilience and the need—more than ever— to come together as a  community."