On Monday, May 13th, the Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association’s (SCVA) Dove Trail Hosts will begin revealing their Dove sculptures for the 2019 tourism season. Unveilings are scheduled each week until June 7th. Hector’s Inn, Bethel, NY was the initial Dove Host to unveil their Dove on April 8th, with owner, Bonnie Lagoda who welcomed over 100 guests who turned out in anticipation to witness the first Dove sculpture reveal. The SCVA also uncovered its first of two Doves with one being a traveling Dove shown at events and tradeshows.
The SCVA created this permanent trail as a legacy project to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the original 1969 Woodstock Festival; to showcase and drive business to Sullivan County communities and businesses; and, to connect this trail to regional experiences through thematic itineraries. The SCVA received a grant from Market New York to assist with promoting this trail to domestic and international visitors.
The trail includes fifty doves located throughout the Sullivan Catskills. They will be located in municipalities, at attractions and local business. Doves are 5’ high, 12” wide, and 7’ long. Each fiberglass sculpture was designed and painted by local artists. Artists were instructed to use the 1960 color palette; famed artist Peter Max as inspiration; and, to create a design that was indicative of the community’s character creating a narrative that is uniquely Sullivan Catskills.
“We are so excited to have these Doves throughout our county. They will truly be a draw for new and returning visitors. We are proud of our local artists who all exceeded our expectations. Each Dove tells a story and creates a descriptive tapestry of the Sullivan Catskills,” stated, Roberta Byron-Lockwood, CEO of the SCVA. “We are going to create a website, brochure and interactive programs to inspire travelers to visit each Dove. We anticipate this project to spur visitor spending,” continued Ms. Byron-Lockwood.
Several of the Dove Hosts will have reveal receptions. Locals are invited to attend as show of support for the Dove Hosts. Updated weekly schedule will be accessible through the SCVA Facebook or contact ljs@scva.net or 845-747-4449 for more information.
The SCVA wants to thank partners, Sullivan Renaissance and Sullivan County Government for their support on this project.
