An unexpected find at Grant;'s memorial

The Grant Memorial Monument at Riverside Park, in Manhattan, hosts a dramatic and practical series of art pieces that are designed for form as well as function. The memorial to Grant, constructed in predictable neo-classical style, is the backdrop for a series of benches, seating areas and linking statues that are anything but predictable.

The artistic approach to seating was a pleasant surprise en route to a standard tourist attraction. The bold use of the entire area around the monument for the statuary and seating is also unexpected.

There was no placard for this, but I will be sure and try to find the name of the artist. Frankly, the work speaks for itself.

Grant's memorial is across the street from Sakura Park and is located prominently along Riverside Drive.