Boston Seaport’s latest contemporary art showcase by doodle artist Jon Burgerman brightens the COVID-19 mood while allowing passersby a socially-distanced way to connect with their community again.

Warm-hearted doodles from artist Jon Burgerman are brought to life in the Boston Seaport's new

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“During this time of uncertainty, art and humor play an important role in keeping our spirits high and bright. Boston Seaport is an excellent canvas for this playful installation, and I am excited to create this fun experience for locals and visitors to enjoy daily,” says Burgerman about his new pieces, commissioned by WS Development.

Warm-hearted doodles from artist Jon Burgerman are brought to life in the Boston Seaport's new

Warm-hearted doodles from artist Jon Burgerman are brought to life in the Boston Seaport's new

Warm-hearted doodles from artist Jon Burgerman are brought to life in the Boston Seaport's new

Warm-hearted doodles from artist Jon Burgerman are brought to life in the Boston Seaport's new

Entitled “Looking Out For Each Other,” the lighthearted installation stars 2D and 3D googly-eyed characters placed strategically around the One Seaport courtyard. Visitors can spot some of Burgerman’s well-known doodles like the friendly pizza slice, a hot dog, “Birdie,” and the blue squiggly blob man. Other energetic personalities ready to inspire smiles include a sunny fried egg, a selfie-worthy rainbow, and an airborne heart all in vibrant, playful colors. There are even a couple of planters that now sport eyeballs and goofy smiles underneath a fringe of leafy hair. The artwork ranges in height from three to five feet and can be explored from every angle.

“The idea was to make the characters I see, doodle, and stick on photos on our environment real,” says Burgerman in an Instagram post. “I hope it brings some joy for all that get to (safely) visit it.”

Even the planters near Burgerman's work have been decked out with smiles and googly eyes of their own.

Burgerman, originally from England, graduated with a degree in fine art from Nottingham Trent University in 2001. His quirky and youthful doodle designs have appeared in the form of murals, paintings, sculptures, clothing, and in his many books, including It’s Great to Create and Rhyme Crime. He’s even produced a 14-piece mini action figure toy collection called “The Heroes of Burgertown.” His work has also been added to collections at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum and Science Museum.

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Okuda San Miguel's

The Boston Seaport has a rich history of inviting talented artists to contribute to their public spaces. Frank Stella was commissioned to make a giant mural reproduction of the “Damascas Gate (Stretch Variation I), 1970,” and Spanish artist Okuda San Miguel was asked to create several exclusive sculptures called “Air Sea Land,” all of which are now an iconic part of the landscape. Some of the creations have even been functional. For instance, “Starry Night,” a rainbow, programmable light spectacle by Lisa Greenfield and Daniel J. van Ackere, was originally intended to make the local road safer, but has since endured for its festive and imaginative qualities.

“Seaport’s public spaces are populated with a collection of beloved artworks. These pieces spark joy and inspiration for area residents, employees, and visitors. As the country turns to open-air spaces for leisure and for work, this outdoor art will serve more community members than ever before. Jon Burgerman’s installation is incredibly accessible and appealing to audiences of all ages. We couldn’t imagine a better exhibit for this time, or a better time for this exhibit,” says Debra Brodsky, Seaport Director of Marketing at WS Development.

Warm-hearted doodles from artist Jon Burgerman are brought to life in the Boston Seaport's new

“Looking Out For Each Other” will be on display until October 31st, 2020.