The Town of Franklin is proud to present The Healing Word: Poetry for Awareness and Connection, a new public art installation making its debut this September at the Franklin Sculpture Park.
Created in honor of National Suicide Awareness Month (September), this project invited local poets and writers to share original works exploring themes of mental health, healing, and hope.
DEBUT of New PUBLIC ART at the Franklin Sculpture Park
Eight poets were compensated for their contributions through the FY25 public art earmark secured by Senator Rebecca Rausch. Their words now stand as works of public art—offering space for reflection, connection, and compassion, while demonstrating the power of the arts to support both emotional well-being and the local creative economy.
Featured Poets: Jamie Brannon, Marc D. Cohen, Rachael Dubinsky, Alan R. Earls, Takaaki Matsumoto, Ella Mooradian, Ali Rheaume, and Stephen Sherlock
We invite you to visit the Sculpture Park, spend time with these moving works, and experience how poetry can bring awareness, healing, and community connection.
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Content Advisory: Sensitive Material
The poems presented in this series share (the poets) personal reflections of mental health, healing, and recovery. Some works may include references to depression, trauma, grief, or suicidal thoughts. This project is part of a community-wide effort to use art as a means of fostering empathy, understanding, and hope. While these pieces express individual experiences, the Town of Franklin does not promote or endorse suicide, self-harm, or any form of violence toward oneself or others.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, support is available. You are not alone. Call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org.
