The “Sturgeon Around the Bay” sculpture/event made its debut in 2000, quickly becoming one of Sturgeon Bay’s most beloved traditions. Though the event eventually came to a close, its impact left a lasting mark on locals and visitors alike.
Now, we’re thrilled to bring back this fan favorite for a special live auction, reviving a piece of Sturgeon Bay’s history and giving everyone a chance to take home a true symbol of our city’s art and culture during a LIVE AUCTION during Harvest Fest on September 20th at Martin Park.
Sneak Peak photo of the Sturgeon:
Artist Name: Brian Pier
Title of Piece: Life On The Bay
Artist Statement: This piece of artwork represents the importance of both the marine life and maritime activity that make up “Life On The Bay”
About Brian: Brian is primarily self-taught but strongly influenced by many of the 19th and early 20th century masters. He studies and paints every day, working in oil and using a limited palette. His paintings are all about the changing light and the way that it plays on the natural beauty that surrounds him.
Dive into Brian’s Artistic Vision! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the inspiration and creative process behind one of this year’s most detailed sturgeon sculptures. Brian’s passion for Sturgeon Bay’s maritime icons shines through in every brushstoke – don’t miss his interview! ⬇️
What inspired your sturgeon’s design?
“I am inspired by the beauty of Sturgeon Bay. I wanted to capture the tugboats, shipping industry, and the steel bridge—these are such important maritime icons in Door County. The sturgeon sculpture gave me the opportunity to reflect all these iconic features onto a form of marine life, making the connection between the natural and industrial elements of our community.”
What materials or techniques did you use to bring your sturgeon to life?
“I wanted the sturgeon to look as realistic as possible—including the imperfections that make it feel alive. I started with a base coat of acrylic gray, then layered in yellow ochre and titanium buff to build the colors around the head and gills. Once those were complete, I washed the entire fish in a rich bronze to create a reflective, metallic look. After painting the shipyards, steel bridge, and tugboat details, I glazed the entire sculpture with an iridescent bronze for depth. To finish it off, I added a permanent protective seal, and for the feelers, I used electrical wire to bring in a touch of texture and realism.”
Is there anything you’d like the public to know about your piece?
“For anyone who enjoys this piece, I’d love to invite them to visit my gallery at 20 S. Madison Avenue in Sturgeon Bay. There’s so much more art to see, and I always enjoy meeting those who appreciate local creativity!”
What do you enjoy most about participating in the Street Art Project?
“I love being part of the art network here in Sturgeon Bay. It’s always a great opportunity to connect with both customers and fellow artists—it feels like a celebration of everything this community values.”
Stay tuned each week as we continue to “Set Sail” with more stories from the artists behind the 2025 Street Art Project. And don’t forget to explore each sturgeon sculpture around town—there’s creativity on every corner in Sturgeon Bay!