Edgewood Blooming

Edgewood blooming was created in 2017 by Jim and Joan Namey, owners of Appalachian Metal Fabricating. At eight feet tall, the 475 pound steel sculpture makes quite the statement in tiny Edgewood Park. The sculpture was commissioned by the Edgewood Garden Club for a total of $5,000. It took three years for the organization to raise funds and select an artist. Though the Nameys are based out of Kenna, WV, Joan grew up on the West Side, making this project a personally significant endeavor. Edgewood Blooming was intended to be eye-catching and unique. The garden club wanted something that would beautify the neighborhood and encourage passerby to stop and admire the piece. The name of the work was chosen not by the artist, but by the club. Edgewood Blooming was chosen as a play on words. The piece depicts blooming flowers and is located on Edgewood Drive, but the name also suggests the revitalization of the Edgewood neighborhood community. In addition to the artwork itself, Edgewood Garden Club maintains the gardens that surround it.