In partnership with the Emerald Necklace Conservancy and Franklin Park Zoo, “Blue Shark Garden” by Aquinnah Wampanoag artist and marine scientist Elizabeth James-Perry opened at Franklin Park this month.

The installation, which will run through next year, blends the artist’s fascination with rich ocean life and sustainable tribal land stewardship practices and celebrates Native American identity in and around Boston.

Measuring 14 feet by 2 feet plus fins, and mounded at about 18 inches, “Blue Shark Garden” is an intersection between northeastern Indigenous coastal heritage, horticulture, and creative expression. The Blue Shark is an ancient and well-adapted species of cartilaginous fish native to the western Atlantic Ocean ecosystems. This planting features Little Bluestem grass and Pennsylvania sedge, both local species. Achieved by mounding up organic soil, the shape is outlined with a border of white Atlantic quahog shells sourced from the Massachusetts coast by the artist.

“I am grateful to the Emerald Necklace Conservancy, Franklin Park Zoo, and the City of Boston – a place Aquinnah has maintained connections with for centuries and where I have direct ancestral Native ties,” said James-Perry.

“We’re so pleased to welcome this new public artwork to Franklin Park,” said Karin Goodfellow, Director of Public Art for the City of Boston. “Following this project, the Boston Art Commission looks forward to continuing to explore the exciting and unexpected forms that public art can take.”

“Blue Shark Garden” is made possible by the Emerald Necklace Conservancy with support from Four Lucky Dogs fund, Zoo New England, and anonymous donors. It is located on Pierpont Road near the Valley Gates picnic area and the Devine Golf Course.