Brookline's Baker School Receives Colorful Artistic Addition

BROOKLINE, MA — Baker School has become the new home for a revamped steel sculpture that once stood in the state's capital city.

A ceremonial ribbon cutting was performed on the colorful archway, which now sits at the entrance of the school’s recently redeveloped outdoor area. The piece was formerly a staple of the Cancer Garden of Hope at Boston City Hall Plaza.

The arch was donated by Chestnut Hill Realty, who had been first given the piece by the Conquer Cancer Coalition. The Coalition raises money for organizations involved in cancer research.

"The Coalition was founded in memory of Michael Zuker, brother of Chestnut Hill Realty Founder and CEO Ed Zuker, who passed away at age 53 from lung cancer," according to a news release from Chestnut Hill Realty.

The rainbow-style colorway of the arch was a change made as part of its new residence at the school, as the original color of sculptor Jim DiSilvestro’s piece is described as “monochrome.” The arch was a part of the Cancer Garden for a decade until 2020, when a renovation project left no designated space for it.

Chestnut Hill was also a driving force behind the Baker School’s outdoor redevelopment project, which involved the creation of a seating area, wide walking paths, and diverse landscaping.