June 1, 2018
Remarks by Theresa Turner, co-founder of New Providence Public Art

Welcome everyone, and thank you for coming today. I'm Theresa Turner and this is Arlene Reagan, and we had the honor and pleasure of serving on the New Providence Public Art committee with Marjan Saniee.  

It was almost three years ago now that Marjan met with us at the Prestige Diner to ask us if we'd like to work with her to bring public art to New Providence. And the results of that initial meeting can be seen all over town today in the sculptures that continue to elevate and beautify our streets and parks.   

On a sadder note, it was almost one year ago exactly that we lost our wonderful friend. It was at Marjan's memorial service soon after that we first talked about the idea of erecting a permanent sculpture in her honor.   
Sometimes these ideas, while sincere and heartfelt in the moment, can fizzle out as time goes by, or can stall because of financial issues, logistical problems, or artistic differences.  

But that was definitely not the case here. From our initial meeting -- with Marjan's husband, Iraj, and the artist Bob Hill -- to discuss the cost and design, to Bob's first model for the sculpture, to Mayor Morgan and the Borough Council's approval of the permanent installation, to DPW's (Department of Public Works) wonderful landscaping, this entire process went without a single hitch.   

There was an incredible feeling of ease and camaraderie among all involved in bringing this idea to fruition, which is, in itself, a tribute to Marjan. I feel like her loving and graceful spirit was over this from the beginning, and that grace is certainly reflected in the beautiful sculpture you'll see in a few minutes.  

And with that I have the honor to introduce Marjan's husband, Iraj Saniee.  

These comments were followed by speakers Iraj Saniee, sculptor Bob Hall, and New Providence Mayor Al Morgan. Marjan Nirou Saniee was also known and appreciated in Summit as curator of many art exhibits at MONDO on Springfield Ave. 

Beneath the sculpture, entitled "Coral," a plaque is inscribed with these words:  

• Never die the hearts that are enlivened by the arts.
• In memory of Marjan Nirou Saniee who brought community and public art to New Providence