Music has a way of bringing people together. No one understood that better than the late John Currin, a founding board member of Impact Alamance, former president and CEO of Alamance Regional Medical Center, and a beloved community leader whose kindness, integrity, and passion touched countless lives across Alamance County.
To honor John’s legacy, Impact Alamance and the New Leaf Society are partnering to bring a one-of-a-kind interactive guitar sculpture to the Children’s Garden of the Burlington Arboretum. The sculpture is currently being installed and is scheduled to open to the public on Thursday. Standing more than 12 feet tall, the sculpture will celebrate John’s love of music, family, and community while creating a playful space where children can explore, imagine, and connect.
“The guitar sculpture is a symbol of unity, creativity, and the joy of music and play,” said Katie Snider, executive director of the New Leaf Society. “It’s a fitting tribute to John, whose contributions have meant so much to our community and who was known for bringing people together.”
Designed and fabricated by Casey Lewis of Beechwood Metalworks, the sculpture invites children to climb, explore, and experience music in new ways. The oversized guitar creates a distinctive play feature and photo opportunity for children and families. Older children can climb a ladder on the back of the guitar that extends partway up the structure, adding an element of adventure and exploration. Metal piping strings on the front of the guitar are intended to double as playable instruments, adding an auditory element to the experience, though the musical components will not be fully finalized until a later date.
The project was inspired not only by John’s lifelong love of music, but also by the joy he found in spending time with his grandchildren and his deep concern for the well-being of children throughout the community.
“John believed in the power of bringing people together and spent his life investing in the people and places that make Alamance County special,” said Tracey Grayzer, president of Impact Alamance. “Whether he was leading a healthcare organization, mentoring young professionals, or cheering on his grandchildren, he approached everything with generosity, humility, and heart. We can’t think of a better way to honor his memory than by creating a space where children and families can gather, play, and make joyful memories together.”
Impact Alamance has committed $25,000 to the project, underscoring the importance of creating spaces that foster connection, creativity, and wellness. Burlington Recreation and Parks will maintain the sculpture, ensuring that Currin’s legacy continues to inspire creativity and community engagement for years to come.
A commemorative plaque installed alongside the sculpture will read:
“In loving memory of John Currin, whose legacy of leadership will forever inspire others to contribute their unique notes to create a harmonious community.”
John’s impact on Alamance County can be seen in countless ways. A lifelong resident of the community, he helped lead the creation of Alamance Regional Medical Center and later guided the organization through its merger with Cone Health. He also dedicated his time and leadership to numerous civic and nonprofit organizations, including United Way of Alamance County, the Alamance County Chamber of Commerce, the Salvation Army, Alamance Community College Foundation, Elon University, and Impact Alamance, where he helped lay the foundation for the organization’s work.
Yet those who knew John best often speak less about his professional accomplishments and more about the person he was. He was a mentor, a friend, and a champion for others – someone who always took time to encourage people and celebrate their successes. Above all, he was devoted to his family and deeply committed to making Alamance County a better place for everyone.
The guitar sculpture stands as a lasting tribute to a man whose leadership, generosity, and love for others helped shape Alamance County for generations.
