Saugatuck Township’s first public art seen as ‘start of something bigger’

What’s happening: Saugatuck Township dedicated its first public art piece Aug. 20 with a ceremony unveiling Canary in a Coal Mine, an 11-foot welded steel sculpture at the Blue Star Highway/Old Allegan Road roundabout along the Blue Star Trail.

What it is:  Installed in May, the bright yellow sculpture draws from the phrase “canary in a coal mine,” which dates back to the 19th century. Miners once carried canaries into tunnels to detect carbon monoxide—an early warning system for invisible danger. The practice ended decades ago, but the phrase continues to symbolize vigilance and foresight.

Who made it: Artist Shawn Morin of Bowling Green, Ohio, created the piece with two abstract yellow forms suggesting a bird. Twin vertical columns represent a coal shaft—tight, daunting, and nearly inaccessible.

What they’re saying: “This piece is very important to us,” Saugatuck Township Manager Daniel DeFranco says. “This is not only a huge safety infrastructure improvement, but also a beautification of the Blue Star corridor. We see this as the start of something bigger. Our vision is for Blue Star to transform into a walkable, beautiful pedestrian corridor that’s friendly for both residents and businesses.”

Who financed it: Funding came through a $4,050 grant from the Saugatuck Douglas Area Convention and Visitors Bureau and a $1,000 donation from Capizzo Studio, a local gallery. While this is Saugatuck Township’s first public art project, Canary in a Coal Mine is the sixth public sculpture added in Saugatuck, Douglas, and Fennville since 2023.

Why the investment matters: “Saugatuck Township saw an opportunity to enhance the roundabout with this bright yellow abstract work, which will not only signal drivers from a distance to slow down, but also project the image that these communities promote progressive and innovative art,” says Maryjo Lemanski, founder of the Saugatuck Douglas Fennville Arts Initiative. She worked alongside Morin and township officials to bring the project to fruition. “Recognizing that this is the first public sculpture installed in Saugatuck Township, the intention was to select a work that makes a strong visual statement.”

Why it’s important:  Township Treasurer Jon Helmrich says the piece connects past and future.“It’s a testament to Shawn Morin’s vision and Saugatuck Township’s spirit. ‘Canary in a Coal Mine’ serves as a reminder of our deep history as the Art Coast of Michigan and a symbol of our vibrant future. It will welcome residents and visitors for years to come as the gateway to the Saugatuck/Douglas communities.”