Nebi

Nebi                                                                                          
Artist: Anthony Alemany
2025
Bronze

"Nebi," which means “water” in the Wabanaki language, reflects the long and layered history of Portsmouth and its Indigenous people. To honor the enduring relationship between people and place, the artist has incorporated the symbolism of the great eagle, recognizing the connection to both earth and sky; kesos, the sun and full moon; and the great turtle of “Turtle Island” or “Mother Earth.” The artist has collaborated with local Indigenous leaders to create his final design.
 

Background

The Portsmouth Public Art Review Committee convened on June 25, 2025, to discuss a significant new public art project that aims to honor the local Wabanaki community and their connection to the land. Sculptor Anthony Alemany presented his concept for a sculpture titled "Nebi," which translates to "water" in Wabanaki to celebrate the heritage of the Wabanaki people, who have inhabited the region for over 10,000 years.

Alemany, a figurative sculptor based in South Berwick, shared his vision for the sculpture, which features a central figure representing summer, holding a Wabanaki water vessel. The design also incorporates a great eagle, symbolizing the connection between the earth and the sky, and aims to evoke contemplation about the history and ongoing presence of the Wabanaki people in the area.

The proposed sculpture will stand approximately nine feet tall and will be made from silicon bronze, a material chosen for its durability and timelessness. Alemany emphasized the importance of using bronze, noting that it has been a medium for art for thousands of years, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Wabanaki culture.

The committee discussed potential locations for the installation, with Alemany suggesting Bohenko Gateway Park as a fitting site. 
Alemany's collaboration with local Abenaki leaders, Paul and Denise Pouliot, ensures that the project will be respectful and representative of indigenous traditions. Their involvement will guide the artistic process, ensuring that the sculpture honors the cultural significance of the Wabanaki people.

The project promises to serve as a lasting tribute to the indigenous heritage of the region, inviting residents and visitors alike to reflect on the deep-rooted connections between the land and its original inhabitants.