In 2021 the popular Boston Museum of Science and the Leonard Nimoy family announced plans to develop a memorial honoring the Star Trek legend at the museum, on it’s front lawn. A Nimoy sculpture tribute. Leonard Nimoy passed away in 2015.
The project had been seeking donations and now work can begin, thanks to a large donation from Android, Inc. co-Founder Rich Miner. He designed the Android mobile OS, and currently runs GV, Googles’ multi-billion venture capital arm.
The 20-foot, illuminated, stainless steel monument is designed by artist David Phillips, and will be shaped in the famous “Live Long and Prosper” hand gesture. “The “Live Long and Prosper” symbol represents a message that my dad believed so strongly in,” said Julie Nimoy, daughter of the entertainer. Nimoy’s career spanned over 60 years as an award-winning actor, director, producer, host, writer, recording artist and photographer.
The idea for the iconic, much-imitated Vulcan greeting, originated with Nimoy himself, who was inspired by an ancient blessing he saw in his Jewish synagogue as a child.
Rich Miner is also a Boston native. He earned his Ph.D. in computer science from the University of Massachusetts. He gave a generous donation to UMass, and the Richard A. Miner School of Computer & Information Sciences was dedicated in 2022. “The Star Trek series and Spock’s character were an early influence on my interest in science and technology along with being an inspiration for several of my start-up companies. Like Leonard, my parents also grew up in the Jewish neighborhoods of Boston.” said Miner.
The sculpture was designed by artist David Phillips, who also has created sculptures for the New England Conservatory of Music and public parks in the region.
The project will start, but still needs more funding. You can donate here if interested: mos.org/Nimoy (does not include the private Miner donation)
A local ABC affiliate news station did a profile on the artist and Nimoy:
-30-
David Raiklen wrote, directed and scored his first film at age 9. He began studying keyboard and composing at age 5. He attended, then taught at UCLA, USC and CalArts. Among his teachers are John Williams and Mel Powel.
He has worked for Fox, Disney and Sprint. David has received numerous awards for his work, including the 2004 American Music Center Award. Dr. Raiklen has composed music and sound design for theater (Death and the Maiden), dance (Russian Ballet), television (Sing Me a Story), cell phone (Spacey Movie), museums (Museum of Tolerance), concert (Violin Sonata ), and film (Appalachian Trail).
His compositions have been performed at the Hollywood Bowl and the first Disney Hall. David Raiken is also host of a successful radio program, Classical Fan Club.
