12/26/13 The rumor of giant blueberries popping up in Plymouth and Marshall County isn’t a rumor, it’s the truth.
Shelley Heiden of Heiden Creative appeared before the Plymouth Park Board this month seeking approval to locate some giant blueberries in Centennial Park. The blueberries are no eatable but are artistic sculptures similar to those seen in Nappanee and Elkhart. Nappanee has apples while Elkhart has painted elk.
Heiden explained to city park board members the simple concept with a large impact. The 36 inch tall and wide blueberries would be made of fiberglass and purchased by businesses, clubs and organizations at a cost of $1,395. The buyer may choose their own artist to create the design they are looking for can commission an artist from the Heartland Artists group in Plymouth for an average fee of $500 per blueberry. The design must be per-approved and cannot be used as advertising. No business logos will be allowed.
Heiden was seeking approval to place some of the blueberries in the park. She noted that they will be placed around the town and eventually it is hopeful that they will make their way into other communities in the county.
Park Board President, Dave Morrow said his only concern was where they could be placed in the park. It was decided that requests would be on an individual basis although they thought designating some areas in the park could be approved. Morrow also wanted to approve the type of art on the blueberries.
Park board member Jim Causey said they have something similar in Saint Joseph, MI. He said, “They are a unique idea worth promoting.”
