Sculpture of "The Greeter” by John Coleman, to honor George Catlin

Nestled within the breathtaking landscape of Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York, lies a truly remarkable work of art that seamlessly blends historical narrative with artistic mastery: the sculpture of "The Greeter" by renowned artist John Coleman. For New Yorkers seeking enriching cultural experiences, a quiet moment of reflection, or simply an encounter with a profound piece of public art, this sculpture offers a unique and moving opportunity. It’s more than just a statue; it’s a storyteller, vividly bringing to life a significant historical encounter and honoring a pivotal figure in the documentation of Native American cultures.

"The Greeter" is a bronze masterpiece dedicated to honor George Catlin, the pioneering American artist who, in the 19th century, made it his life's mission to paint the Native American tribes of the American West. The sculpture itself is based on an account by Catlin of his time spent with Black Moccasin, the venerable chief of the Hidatsas. Coleman’s interpretation imagines Chief Black Moccasin in his 70s, standing on the bank of the Missouri River, extending a welcoming gesture with his eagle fan and holding his ceremonial pipe as he might have appeared when meeting Lewis and Clark. This intricate detail and historical accuracy elevate the sculpture from mere representation to a powerful narrative, offering a tangible connection to a vital piece of American history.

As one reviewer eloquently put it, "This sculpture by John Coleman is remarkably beautiful and impeccably crafted with an incredible amount of intricate detail. I imagine it took the artist a long time to craft this impressive piece and bring his creative vision to full fruition." Indeed, Coleman, a leading sculptor of the American West, is known for his ability to "tell stories in my work that help explain who we are and from where we came. Each piece tells an underlying story in the three dimensional, a visual mythology written by my hands and spiritual imagination, somehow linking us to the past and bringing us to a greater understanding of our ancestors." "The Greeter" stands as a testament to this philosophy, inviting viewers to ponder the rich tapestry of American history and the complex interactions that shaped the nation. Donated to Green-Wood by John Coleman himself in 2012, this sculpture is a cherished addition to the cemetery's extensive collection of art and monuments, further solidifying Green-Wood's reputation as an outdoor museum and cultural institution for all New Yorkers to explore.

The Sculpture of "The Greeter" by John Coleman, honoring George Catlin, is located within the magnificent Green-Wood Cemetery, at address M233+P7, Brooklyn, NY 11218, USA. Green-Wood Cemetery itself is a sprawling National Historic Landmark, encompassing 478 acres of rolling hills, valleys, glacial ponds, and paths. Its main entrance, and arguably the most iconic, is located at Fifth Avenue and 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY. George Catlin himself is also buried within Green-Wood Cemetery, adding another layer of historical significance to the sculpture's location.

Green-Wood Cemetery is highly accessible for New Yorkers utilizing public transportation. Several subway lines provide convenient access: the R train stops directly at the 25th Street station, just steps away from the main entrance. Additionally, the D, N, and Q trains also serve nearby stations like 36th Street, offering a short walk or transfer. Numerous MTA bus routes also operate in the vicinity, connecting various Brooklyn neighborhoods to the cemetery. For those traveling from Manhattan or other boroughs, connecting to these subway lines is straightforward.

For visitors arriving by car, Green-Wood Cemetery offers free parking within its grounds. Visitors are permitted to drive through the cemetery on the right-hand side of the road, and parking is allowed on the right-hand side of the "streets" within the cemetery, though parking on the grass is prohibited. When using GPS, it is recommended to enter "25th Street and Fifth Avenue, Brooklyn, NY" rather than the specific street number to ensure correct routing to the main entrance. The cemetery's vast network of paved paths makes it highly walkable, but also provides ample space for those who prefer to drive and stop at various points of interest, including "The Greeter."

As part of the larger Green-Wood Cemetery, the location of "The Greeter" benefits from the cemetery's extensive services and offerings, designed to enrich the visitor experience.

• Self-Guided Exploration: Visitors are welcome to explore the cemetery's vast grounds at their own pace, using maps available at the entrance to locate specific monuments, including "The Greeter."
• Guided Tours: Green-Wood offers a variety of guided tours, both walking and trolley tours, focusing on art, history, horticulture, and notable residents. These tours often highlight significant sculptures and historical figures, providing deeper insights into pieces like "The Greeter."
• Educational Programs: The cemetery hosts numerous educational programs, workshops, and lectures throughout the year, covering topics ranging from history and art conservation to environmental science and genealogy.
• Public Events: Green-Wood regularly organizes concerts, art installations, bird-watching walks, and other special events that are open to the public, blending cultural engagement with the serene outdoor environment.
• Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are available near the main entrance and at the Prospect Park West entrance, providing convenience for visitors.
• Information and Assistance: Staff are typically available at the main entrance to provide maps, answer questions, and offer guidance to visitors.
• Gift Shop: The cemetery features a gift shop where visitors can purchase books, souvenirs, and items related to Green-Wood's history, art, and natural beauty.

The Sculpture of "The Greeter" and its setting within Green-Wood Cemetery offer a wealth of unique features and highlights for New Yorkers.

• Masterpiece of Detail: The sculpture itself is "remarkably beautiful and impeccably crafted with an incredible amount of intricate detail," showcasing John Coleman's mastery of the American West sculpting tradition.
• Historical Narrative: It vividly tells the story of Chief Black Moccasin's encounter with Lewis and Clark, based on George Catlin's accounts, providing a poignant link to Native American history and early American exploration.
• Tribute to George Catlin: The sculpture serves as a powerful tribute to George Catlin, whose tireless efforts to document Indigenous cultures left a priceless legacy. It’s particularly significant given that Catlin is also buried in Green-Wood.
• Prominent Location: Situated within Green-Wood Cemetery, a National Historic Landmark, the sculpture is part of a larger outdoor museum featuring an unparalleled collection of 19th and 20th-century statuary and mausoleums.
• Serene Setting: The beautiful, park-like environment of Green-Wood Cemetery offers a peaceful and contemplative setting for viewing the sculpture, allowing visitors to appreciate its artistry without urban distractions.
• Connection to Ancestry and Mythology: As Coleman himself explains, his work aims to "link us to the past and bring us to a greater understanding of our ancestors," making "The Greeter" a piece that resonates on a deeply spiritual and historical level.
• Landscape and Architecture: Green-Wood is known for its stunning landscape design (which inspired Central and Prospect Parks) and remarkable architectural features, from its Gothic Revival gatehouse to diverse mausoleums, all serving as a backdrop to the sculpture.

While Green-Wood Cemetery, and by extension, the location of "The Greeter," does not offer traditional commercial "promotions" for this specific sculpture, it provides numerous benefits and access opportunities for New Yorkers.

• Free Public Access: The most significant "offer" is the free public access to Green-Wood Cemetery, allowing anyone to visit and appreciate "The Greeter" and the myriad other historical, artistic, and natural wonders within its gates.
• Membership Benefits: Green-Wood Cemetery offers various membership levels which provide benefits such as discounted tickets for tours and events (including a new 20% discount on tickets), invitations to members-only events, early access to ticket releases, subscriptions to their magazine, and discounts on merchandise. For frequent visitors or those interested in deeper engagement, membership offers substantial value.
• Free Events: The cemetery frequently hosts free public events, lectures, and self-guided tours that highlight different aspects of its art, history, and horticulture. Checking their events calendar is recommended to catch these special opportunities.
• Educational Resources: The rich interpretive placards and online resources available through Green-Wood's website further enhance the visitor's understanding of "The Greeter" and its context, all at no additional cost.

For inquiries about visiting Green-Wood Cemetery, locating "The Greeter," or information on tours and events, please use the following contact details:

Address: Green-Wood Cemetery, 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232, USA (This is the main address for Green-Wood Cemetery, where the sculpture is located. The M233+P7 is a plus code for a more specific location within the cemetery)

General Inquiries/Cemetery Administration: (718) 768-7300 (Available Mon-Fri, 8 am - 4 pm)

Public Programs, Tours, Events: (718) 210-3080

Email: info@green-wood.com or contactus@green-wood.com

Website: For the most up-to-date information on hours, events, and a detailed map, please visit the official Green-Wood Cemetery website at green-wood.com.

"The Greeter" by John Coleman, situated within the historic Green-Wood Cemetery, is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in New York for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it offers a profound and accessible cultural experience right here in Brooklyn. The sculpture's "remarkably beautiful and impeccably crafted" nature, combined with its rich narrative about Chief Black Moccasin and its tribute to George Catlin, provides a unique opportunity for New Yorkers to engage with American history and art in a deeply meaningful way. It's a testament to the power of public art to educate and inspire.

Secondly, its location within Green-Wood Cemetery, a National Historic Landmark, means that a visit to "The Greeter" can be part of a larger, incredibly rewarding outdoor excursion. New Yorkers can spend hours exploring the cemetery's stunning landscapes, discovering other historical monuments, diverse arboreal collections, and enjoying serene moments away from the city's hustle. The combination of art, history, and nature in one accessible location makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon, a thought-provoking walk, or even a family outing.

Finally, the cemetery's commitment to public access and its array of free and discounted programs ensure that this significant piece of art and its historical context are available to everyone. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a beautiful and contemplative space, "The Greeter" and Green-Wood Cemetery offer a truly enriching and uniquely New York experience that connects us to our past and encourages a deeper understanding of our shared heritage.

Sculpture of "The Greeter” by John Coleman, to honor George Catlin

M233+P7, Brooklyn, NY 11218, USA