By: Richard L. Smith
The excitement surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup will leave a lasting mark in West Orange, where a large, artist-designed soccer ball sculpture has found a permanent home.
According to township officials, West Orange was selected as a Legacy Partner of The Art of the Game, an initiative developed by Jersey City nonprofit Arts 14C in partnership with the New York New Jersey Host Committee.
The township received one of 17 sculptures made available to communities across New York and New Jersey following this summer’s World Cup celebrations.
The artwork, titled “YOU MOVE EARTH,” was created by internationally recognized artist Cemile Sahin and installed at the corner of Main Street and Park Avenue, near the renovated Lafayette Playground.
The location places the sculpture near several historic landmarks, including Thomas Edison National Historical Park and Llewellyn Park, home to Edison’s former residence, Glenmont.
Mayor Susan McCartney said the township pursued the opportunity because of West Orange’s longstanding connection to soccer.
That tradition includes the Mountain Top League, a volunteer youth soccer organization established in 1959 that now serves more than 2,500 children annually.
West Orange High School also celebrated a major achievement when its boys’ soccer team captured the 2025 NJSIAA Group 4 State Championship.
Throughout the summer, the community embraced the World Cup through public watch parties, local art exhibitions, and soccer-themed events.
Township officials said the sculpture will serve as a permanent gathering place for residents and visitors while supporting future community activities, including youth soccer programs, student art projects, and neighborhood celebrations.
The township’s Engineering, Recreation, and Public Works departments will oversee the artwork’s long-term maintenance.
Officials hope the installation will strengthen downtown West Orange’s cultural appeal while preserving a piece of the region’s World Cup history for future generations.