Bradenton has added a striking new public art installation called “The Singing River” to the Riverwalk at Manatee Mineral Springs Park. The sculpture features overhead laser-cut tubes that evoke Florida’s vibrant sunsets through color while producing soft, pleasant whistling or chime-like sounds as wind passes through them. Inspired by a Native American legend from the 1986 book “The Singing River” by Joe and Libby Warner—which describes a humming noise created by tannic acid from palmetto roots reacting with river water during rain—the piece blends visual, auditory, and historical elements. It took over three years to develop from nearly 120 artist submissions and cost $525,000 including surrounding landscaping, with lighting that transitions from day to night.
The artwork, created by Reinaldo Correa of Reinaldo Correa Studio in partnership with Project One Studio, aims to serve as a community gathering spot where visitors can disconnect from daily routines and connect with local history, culture, and the natural environment along the Manatee River. City officials, including Councilman Kemp Schuessler and CRA Executive Director Jeff Burton, praise it as a major attraction that enhances the Riverwalk, boosts property values, and preserves community identity. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for the coming months. The sculpture highlights how thoughtful public art can tell meaningful stories while interacting with the breeze, sky, and river.
