Salisbury Picks Kinetic Sculpture for 2026 Art Prize
Salisbury, MD - Downtown Salisbury is getting a new interactive landmark. The City has named Jared and Jeri Alexander the winners of the 2026 Salisbury Prize for their design of a permanent kinetic sculpture.
The artwork will replace the kiosk at 125 N. Division Street, right in front of the Government Office Building. It's set to become a hands-on centerpiece in one of downtown's busiest walking areas.
The sculpture will stand about eight feet tall and four feet wide. It features nearly 380 stainless steel tiles held within a corten steel frame, each one finished in either mirrored or matte steel to create shifting light and movement.
Visitors will be able to turn a manual crank built into the sculpture. That motion sends the steel tiles rippling through the structure in a cascading "Jacob's ladder" effect, with reflections and movement that change every time.
The piece is designed to be more than something you just look at. People of all ages are invited to stop, turn the crank and experience something a little different with each visit.
"Our sculpture promotes a sense of community and belonging by symbolizing the connection between community members and the impact each individual can make," said Jared Alexander. "The interactive and kinetic components of this sculpture will encourage passersby to engage with it and each other."
The sculpture's location puts it near government offices, local shops and public gathering spots along North Division Street. It's part of a bigger push to make downtown Salisbury more walkable and full of public art.
"This sculpture will add an attractive and interactive experience to the heart of Downtown Salisbury," said Mayor Randy Taylor.
The Salisbury Prize is the city's annual public art program. It supports original works chosen through a competitive process, all aimed at bringing more life and identity to downtown spaces.
Funding for the project comes from a grant through the Maryland State Arts Council. That support helps cover the sculpture's creation, fabrication and installation.
Jared Alexander has more than a decade of experience in metal fabrication and industrial maintenance. Jeri Alexander holds a degree in 3D Studio Art from Salisbury University and has worked on other regional art projects, including installations at the Salisbury Zoo and Unity Square.
The sculpture is built to last more than 20 years with little upkeep needed. Over time, the corten steel frame will develop a natural rusted patina, while the stainless steel pieces are expected to soften in appearance as they're exposed to the elements.
Updates on fabrication and installation will be shared as the project moves forward. Downtown Salisbury has a new landmark on the way.
