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Southampton Press / Community / Community Story / 2232450

XOXO Sculpture at Southampton Arts Center for Limited Time

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The sculpture lit up at night. COURTESY NANCY KANE

The sculpture lit up at night. COURTESY NANCY KANE

From left, artist James Ding, Village Trustee Len Zinnanti, Southampton Arts Center Executive Director Christina Strassfield, Deputy Mayor Gina Arresta, and Village Trustee Roy Stevenson. COURTESY NANCY KANE

From left, artist James Ding, Village Trustee Len Zinnanti, Southampton Arts Center Executive Director Christina Strassfield, Deputy Mayor Gina Arresta, and Village Trustee Roy Stevenson. COURTESY NANCY KANE

authorStaff Writer on Feb 19, 2024

An original sculpture by North Sea artist James Ding was installed on the grounds of the Southampton Arts Center — appropriately, in time for Valentine’s Day last week.

The “XOXO Hugs and Kisses” sculpture will remain on view for several weeks.

Ding taught industrial arts in Connecticut, where he discovered a love of screen printing. He moved to Southampton to start a silkscreen printing business, which he eventually sold to focus on his art.

Calling this his “new love in life,” Ding’s art is autobiographical with a message: love.

His “XOXO Hugs and Kisses” sculpture is part of his “Inspired by Love” series and is designed for the members of the community to interact with.

“I’ve been a working artist my whole life. Over 40 years ago, I fell in love with Southampton,” he said. “I am very appreciative that Mayor Bill Manger recognized that my ‘XOXO Hugs and Kisses’ sculpture would be good for the community. I am grateful to be able to contribute and be part of the village and community that I have loved from the start.”

The sculpture stands 6 feet by 6 feet and will be lit up at night as well as viewable by day.

“Anytime we can encourage folks to enjoy our beautiful downtown is an opportunity we cannot pass up,” said Mayor Bill Manger. “When James suggested this, I just had to say yes. What better way of celebrating our beautiful village than with a message of love?”

Christina Strassfield, executive director of the Southampton Arts Center, agreed: “We are delighted to share this Valentine and the sentiment behind it with all who pass the Southampton Arts Center.”

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