Bringing a Great Comedy Duo to Life

In 1999 Carpenter was selected as a finalist to create a fitting tribute to University of Maryland alumnus, Jim Henson. Carpenter conceived of Jim and Kermit together on a bench, as was specified in the competition guidelines. What set Carpenter’s design apart was the depiction of Kermit as a living being, detached from Jim’s arm.

“Jim always presented Kermit as a real, living thing. The dynamic between them was so special. It made sense to carry that perception into the sculpture. We find them deep in discussion, as true partners, dreaming up their next big project.” JHC

The project was installed on time and on budget, and is now considered by The Washington Post as one of the ten must-see sculptures in Washington DC.