Seward Johnson Sculpture Tour
Art Imitates Life II: Beyond the Bronze
January 19 - June 19, 2026
Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens is once again honored to display a sculpture from the "Art Imitates Life" installation by world-renowned American artist Seward Johnson (1930-2020) presented by the Ormond Beach Arts District.
All 12 life-size, life-like bronze sculptures are located on both public and private property along the Granada Boulevard corridor from A1A to Lewis Street. They are so realistic; you’ll be tempted to stop and chat. In fact, they are often mistaken for “real” people!
About the Artist
John Seward Johnson II was born in New Jersey, and following the auspicious clipping of a newspaper ad for a beginner’s sculpture class, became well-known worldwide for his figurative sculptures. Spurred to strengthen communities through his artwork, Seward built the Johnson Atelier, which continues to weave his sculpture into the fabric of everyday life through music, dance, poetry, food, all the things Seward loved.
Sweet Sixteen depicts a girl sitting on a bench quietly reading. Johnson enjoyed creating sculptures of both adults and children. Which book do you read over and over? Johnson's own youth was full of challenges, struggling academically due to dyslexia. He attended the Forman School in Litchfield, Connecticut which was committed to utilizing the best available resources and latest research-driven techniques to address the specific learning disabilities of their students.
