Local artist Nick Pugh will unveil his latest installation sculpture, Vega, on Oct. 8 at Gilmanton’s Own Market, located at 741 Province Rd., in Gilmanton.

The unveiling is part of the Cultivating Community event series sponsored by Gilmanton’s Own Market and includes an Open Studio event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Nick Pugh Studio at the same address.

Freshly-grilled breakfast and lunch sandwiches will also be available from Gilmanton’s Own resident chef, Sarah Baldwin-Welcome.

The Cultivating Community series provides local farmers, artists, artisans and community groups the opportunity to interact with members of their local community and showcase the unique contribution they make to it.

Vega is the second in a series of large-scale starburst shaped objects that depict creativity. The first sculpture, Spark of Creation, was built in 2020 and offers a stunning hillside statement for motorists traveling past the Market on Route 107.

“Creativity and nature have always fascinated me,” said Nick. “How do we come up with new ideas? How does nature create such beauty? These are questions I am asking when I make art.”

The backdrop of Columbus Day Weekend foliage makes the short walk from the Market up the hill to see Spark of Creation up close well worth the trip.

The Market, with its wide selection of locally produced produce, baked goods, pantry items and artisan wares will be open during the entire event.

Gilmanton’s Own is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization proudly preserving and promoting agriculture, arts and community in the Belknap/Merrimack counties region. To learn more about Gilmanton’s Own, visit www.gilmantonsown.com.