Under skies sprinkling rain, the Folsom community came together Thursday afternoon to celebrate a special moment: the unveiling of the first art installation on the Johnny Cash Trail. The centerpiece of the event was Cash’s Pick No. 1, a 7-foot-tall guitar pick created by artist Adan Romo of Sacramento-based Romo Studios. The sculpture stands at the trailhead near the Rainbow Bridge, symbolizing the start of a journey that celebrates the life, music, and legacy of Johnny Cash.
Despite the inclement weather, a large crowd of residents, city officials, and project contributors gathered to witness this milestone in the city’s tribute to the Man in Black. The Johnny Cash Trail, completed in 2017, has become a cherished part of Folsom’s identity, and the unveiling of its first art installation marks a significant step forward in the realization of a larger vision for this cultural landmark.
Kelly Gonzalez, City of Folsom Parks and Recreation Director, began the ceremony by reflecting on the importance of the Johnny Cash Trail. She described it as a world-class public art project, conceived to honor Cash’s time in Folsom during his famous 1968 performance at Folsom State Prison. Gonzalez explained that the project will eventually include eight sculptures and a three-acre park, all designed to enhance the already-popular bike and pedestrian trail.
“Today, we unveil Cash’s Pick No. 1, the first of many art installations that will tell the story of Johnny Cash and his connection to Folsom,” Gonzalez said. “Just as Johnny began every song with a pick, this sculpture acts as the gateway to the Johnny Cash Trail and its unfolding story.”
Gonzalez expressed gratitude to those who made the project possible, including current and past city leaders, local donors, and dedicated project teams. She specifically acknowledged Folsom Mayor Mike Kozlowski, members of the city council, and retired Parks and Recreation leaders who laid the groundwork for the trail years ago. She also thanked the design and construction teams, including RRM Design Group and Central Valley Engineering, as well as artist Adan Romo for his creative vision.
Tom Hellman, Recreation and Community Services Manager, called the day a “legendary moment,” highlighting the deep connection between Johnny Cash and Folsom. “Whether you are a fan of Johnny Cash or not, his link to Folsom will forever be etched in pop culture and history,” Hellman said. He also read a statement from the Cash family, who expressed their excitement about the first art installation on the trail. “This celebration and honor further cements Johnny’s legacy and his strong connection to Folsom,” the statement read.
Mayor Kozlowski offered brief but poignant remarks, emphasizing the importance of Folsom’s parks and trails in shaping the city’s identity. “This piece of public art is a testament to our commitment to spectacular public spaces,” the mayor said. “I want to thank everyone involved and acknowledge the contributions of past leaders who helped make this day possible.”
Brian Wallace, Chair of the Parks and Recreation Commission, spoke as a self-proclaimed Johnny Cash superfan. He expressed his excitement about how Cash’s Pick No. 1 not only honors the musician’s legacy but also reflects Folsom’s creative approach to celebrating its history. “This sculpture marks the opening chord of a story that resonates beyond Folsom,” Wallace said.
Artist Adan Romo shared his journey in creating the sculpture and his inspiration for its design. He described standing on the land before the trail existed and envisioning a project that would blend art and landscape. “The pick rests on a large record, symbolizing both music and the ripples of Folsom Lake,” Romo explained. “This gateway piece represents the first plucking of the strings for this trail, a song yet to be fully told.”
The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of the sculpture, as city officials and community leaders pulled back a ceremonial covering to reveal the large guitar pick sculpture with applause from those watching on. The pick is appropriately perched in the center of of what replicates a record as well. a There is stilll a few final details to be added to the sculpture, including the lettering and signage as illustrated in the renderings. Those additions will be added on location when the weather permits.
Now standing tall at the entrance of the Johnny Cash Trail, Cash’s Pick No. 1 invites visitors to explore the 2.75-mile trail, which winds through scenic landscapes and pays homage to one of America’s iconic musicians. As the first of many planned installations, the sculpture represents the beginning of a larger narrative—a story of music, history, and community that will continue to resonate far beyond the borders of Folsom.
The components for the Johnny Cash Trail are being paid for through previous and ongoing fundraising efforts since the trail was construction. In 2023, major funding was been secured within the California State Budget in the way of grant funds that allowed the City of of Folsom to move forward with the initial addition of one of the city’s most unique trails.
Folsom resident and California State Assemblyman Josh Hoover proudly announced the passage of the California budget bill that secured $425,000 to the City of Folsom Parks & Recreation Department for the Johnny Cash Trail Art Experience, in particular one of the large picks. The funding was side marked by the state to be used for support the arts and Folsom fortunate was able to procure some of those allocated state funds to assist in the trail art.
For those looking to learn more about the Johnny Cash Trail or upcoming art installations, additional information is available at folsomcasharttrail.com. ©Folsom Times, All Town Media, LLC.
