Thurmont Unveils New Public Art Sculpture Celebrating Community Spirit

Alisha Yocum

Visitors passing through Thurmont’s town square may notice a striking new addition: The Joy of Thurmont, a metal sculpture created by local artist Yemi Fagbohun. The piece pays tribute to the town’s heritage and sense of unity.

Fagbohun, a native of Nigeria, moved to Thurmont in 2007, after spending 18 years in New York City, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Master of Science in Art and Communications Design from the Pratt Institute. He chose Thurmont as the ideal place to raise his family, drawn by its small-town charm and strong community values.

“The people of Thurmont have always been welcoming to me and my family,” Fagbohun said. “I’m proud of the progress the town has made in recent years.”

The Joy of Thurmont reflects that pride. The sculpture incorporates iconic local landmarks, such as the historic covered bridge and the former Thurmont Bank building, now The Vault 1891. Silhouettes of people from various backgrounds are also featured, representing the town’s inclusive spirit.

Fagbohun said his goal was to create a piece of art that every resident could see themselves in—something that not only honors the town’s past but also celebrates its evolving identity.

To learn more about the artist, visit www.yemiart.com.

Thurmont unveils the new art sculpture, The Joy of Thurmont (from left): (back row) Thurmont Mayor John Kinnaird, artist Yemi Fagbohun, Commissioner Marty Burns; (front row) Commissioners Wayne Hooper, Bill Blakeslee, and Bill Lookingbill.