The Niles Public Art Commission has received a $4,000 grant from the Michigan Gateway Community Foundation to put toward the purchase of a sculpture titled “Generations,” created by well-known area artist Tuck Langland.

The installation of the sculpture, at the corner of Seventh and Main streets near the Niles District Library, will seek to create a focal point for an arts district within the city of Niles. Residents and visitors alike are invited to enjoy this public offering of fine art.

Generations, along with Richard Hunt’s sculpture, “Hybrid Form II,” which was reinstalled this spring at Front and Main streets, will form bookends of fine art to complement Niles’ historic downtown.

Tuck Langland is a noted artist and author with a national reputation, who currently resides in Granger, Indiana. His bronze sculpture, “Generations,” portrays a man lifting a young girl on his shoulder, representing one generation uplifting the next.

The award from the Michigan Gateway Foundation will be applied toward the sculpture’s purchase and installation costs of $75,000.

The Niles Public Arts Commission is governed by the City of Niles. The Commission’s mission is to work with artists to create unique and accessible destinations that highlight the rich history and cultural diversity of the community in southwestern Michigan.

The NPAC seeks to cultivate awareness of Niles’ history and diversity through the fine arts and involve the community in the arts using creativity and multicultural perspectives. The NPAC has made the commitment to make public art accessible through the generosity and support of the community and others who have a passion for the arts and the city of Niles.