BELFAST — Our Town Belfast has added five new chairs to the Sit Down Belfast project. These chairs are again designed and painted by local artists, including two youth.

The Sit Down Belfast project was introduced in 2022 and added to the inviting, welcoming, and cool atmosphere of downtown Belfast. OTB placemaking projects like this one create an emotional connection that in turn forms a strong, sustainable, interconnected community for locals and visitors alike.

When the OTB Design Committee identified a need for additional seating throughout downtown, the idea of an iconic Adirondack chair was immediately discussed, according to OTB, in a news release. However, the committee knew the traditional design would need to be reimagined to make it accessible for people with mobility issues. Working with local craftsman Doug Bell, the seat width and height were increased, the arm width increased, and the “dip” in the back of the seat was eliminated. The redesign has been tested by community members with various mobility issues; each of the testers had no problems getting in or out of the chairs.

“Honestly, I never expected my sketch to be accepted,” said Jem Bywater, a Troy Howard Middle School student. “I just thought it would be a fun project to try for myself. When I thought about what design I wanted to put on a chair, I saw my action figure of a Japanese giant alien superhero, Ultraman, defender of Tokyo, and instantly, the dream of a chair adorned with his dynamic image came to mind! I’m very excited to see my artistic vision on the streets of Belfast.”

Jem’s stepfather, Mike Simone, who assembled the chair, added, “It’s always inspiring to see Belfast’s artistic soul on display, so having a chance to participate in this was incredibly appealing.  I loved the idea of helping Jem be part of the next generation of talented Belfast artists to bring more and more beauty to our streets. And what small town doesn’t need a giant alien protector to help keep the peace?”

Each chair has a plaque representing the presenting sponsors First National Bank and First National Wealth Management, the artist, and the individual chair sponsor. The 2023 chairs were sponsored by local businesses: Dairy Queen, Rollie’s & Rollie’s Remote Catering, Satori, The Green Store, and Vinolio. The 2023 artists who shared their visions are Jem Bywater, Kai Kutsy, Laura Lyons, Tiernan Lee Reidy, and Kristyne Sanderson.

“For their help with this project, we would like to thank all the sponsors, artists, Viking Lumber, Belfast Public Works, Pegi Miller, Mary Mortier, and Larry Jones,” said OTB.

Learn more at ourtownbelfast.org.

OUR TOWN BELFAST is a community-driven, inclusive nationally accredited Main Street organization whose mission is to grow and sustain our historic downtown while celebrating our unique cultural heritage. We believe in supporting local businesses, honoring our heritage through historic preservation, and bringing together the community to make downtown Belfast an inclusive and better place to work, shop, play, and live. Our Town Belfast envisions a vibrant future in which our waterfront, commercial district, treasured historic buildings, and outdoor public spaces are alive with inclusive and interactive placemaking activity.