The National Sculptors' Guild installed Charter Member, Denny Haskew's bronze sculpture 'Committed' at the Josephine B. Jones Park and Open Space in Greeley, Colorado this morning. The sculpture was donated to the site by NSG Director, John Kinkade, in honor of his parents, Jack and Ditto Kinkade, long-time, beloved residents of Greeley who frequently donated their time and services to the community.

Kinkade was instrumental in the creation of the park 30+years ago in the name of close family friend Josephine Jones, a true pioneer of the region who enriched the community in cultural events, historic preservation, and as an avid proponent of natural spaces;  many of the trees in the open space were planted as saplings by Jones. 

The 11-ft tall bronze is enhanced with gold leaf on the sash. We've mounted the sculpture to a 1-ft tall sandstone base that is inscribed: "Given to the City of Greeley in honor of his parents, Dorothy (Ditto) Waldo Kinkade and John (Jack) Henry Kinkade, Jr. by John Waldo Kinkade - 2023"

The site is ideal for this sculpture, a beautiful xeriscape expanse of land (~36 acres) stretching from Jones' former home (now used by the Greeley Forestry Department) to the edge of Highway 34. The family's deep connection to Jones and the natural space feels like the right placement to honor all involved and we appreciate the assistance from the city to make this happen. (Special thanks to DC Crane, Tribble Stone and Kim Snyder and Will Dillon from the City of Greeley for assisting on-site this morning). #SculptureIsATeamSport

The artist developed a love for all things natural as well as a religious respect for all beings on earth from his relationship with his father and Potawatomi grandmother. Committed started as a traditional crucifix without Native American context. The crucifixion pose emphasized the importance to follow a spiritual path and be committed to it. We are all free to choose and once committed to a path with our Creator we begin to see inner truth.

"I give to you all that I am.
My faith in Spirit is unchanging.
​Eyes closed I can only see love." -DH

Literally, the bronze is a depiction of a member of the Dog Soldier Society, sometimes called a "Sash Wearer." This man was known among his tribal members as a fierce warrior and courageous leader. When confronted by an enemy, the Dog Soldier would stake the end of the sash to the ground with his spear, thus telling the enemy he must fight to the death at this spot or leave. Other times the Dog Soldier may stake himself out as his tribal members advanced into battle so as to say "I am here, if you retreat past me, you will sacrifice me for I will fight to the death at this spot." His double eagle-tail bonnet blows out behind him creating a circle, the circle of life for all living beings.

​The city will be adding a QR code to the site that will lead visitors of the site to learn about the sculpture. ​

The sculptures are in! The National Sculptors' Guild installed "In the Wings" by Jane DeDecker and Alyson Kinkade, and "The Conductor" by Jane DeDecker at the Downey Theatre plaza yesterday. We so enjoy working with the City of Downey as they continue to grow their public art collection. Special thanks to Capitol Crane for lifting the custom stone bases from Tribble Stone over Embassy Suites' wall; it was quite a feat. The dancer's tutus add a splash of color, and the conductor's flair enlivens the space.

These smaller works accompany the Fountain feature "Tree of Life" by Clay Enoch that the Guild previously installed. Additional sculptures are planned for the near future, and seating will allow guests to the theatre to enjoy the surrounding beauty of the plaza.

​

Material shortages and covid shutdowns delayed this installation. We are thrilled to have it them in place as a display of the return to post-pandemic life. We can't wait to see the plaza filled with theater-goers.

NSG Public Art Placements #532 & 533

#NationalSculptorsGuild #NSG #PublicArt #SculptureIsATeamSport #ArtistDriven #ClientMinded
#JaneDeDecker #AlysonKinkade #InTheWings #Conductor #DowneyTheatre #CityOfDowney #DowneyCA

10/27/2020: Two new pieces will be placed at the Theatre Plaza Sculpture Garden. "In the Wings" by Jane DeDecker and Alyson Kinkade, and "The Conductor" by Jane DeDecker. These smaller artworks join Clay Enoch's "Tree of Life" fountain in the center of the Downey Theatre Plaza.

There are plans for additional placements in the near future that will depict the varied performing arts for the Theatre Plaza Sculpture Garden. From musicians and actors; to dancers and comics; these sculpted entertainers will activate the space. Below is a suggested plan, each work is subject to change.

The next "In the Wings" by Jane DeDecker and Alyson Kinkade is being unveiled this year at Sculpture at the River Market in Little Rock this weekend. Since the bronze isn't out of the foundry yet, the plaster casting gave us a true blank canvas to consider... then we wondered how other's see it.... We'd love to see what colors you'd choose for the sculpture. So download/print the file and color in your dancers. (or if you're in Little Rock, stop by Jane's booth for a printout) We hope you'll take a pic and tag us (see below) your colorful tutu and use #ColorInTheWings ...one of your color schemes will be selected to inspire how the first casting of "In the Wings II" is painted.
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tag us on instagram /columbinegallery 
facebook /natlsculptguild or twitter /natlsculptguild

12/13/16 update: While the National Sculptors' Guild was in Little Rock this week, we installed some of the final donor blocks on the ​ROTARY CLUB 99 Centennial Plaza. The design is based on the Rotary Wheel emblem and it's symbolism. Designed by NSG's John Kinkade ​and Mark Leichliter National Sculptors' Guild
based upon the Rotary Wheel emblem. ​ [read below to learn more about the concept]

7/19/16:
​ROTARY CLUB 99 
Centennial Plaza
Little Rock, AR 
Designed by 
John Kinkade
​and Mark Leichliter
National Sculptors' Guild
based upon the Rotary Wheel emblem.

The Rotary Wheel emblem symbolizes work and involvement. The worldwide Rotary movement has real significance and tremendous potential. It has impressive statistics as to numbers of members, clubs, districts, and countries, international projects and contacts.
 
Beginning with the Rotary Wheel’s perimeter, there are 24 teeth. These could be seen as the clubs, each prepared and willing to engage with other clubs or organizations around the world, with the purpose of doing good. The 24 teeth also point outwards to the many directional activities of Rotary through its wide variety of international programs. 

​The solid blue and gold band, which supports the teeth, provides the strength which is needed to transmit power and hold the Rotary movement as one. It carries the inscription "Rotary International" and has four segments which represent the four avenues of  service. The six spokes bind together the hub and the rim. They represent the Districts, moving the power from its source to the working elements - the teeth, representing the clubs. The six spokes divided by the twenty four teeth is a mathematical reference to the Four Way Test. 

The central hub ensures that the whole gear runs true to its purpose: the power and the energy created when people of like mind and are committed to releasing this energy; "Service above Self".

Curved concrete retaining walls measuring slightly over 4 feet tall will diminish in height and eventually be even with the surface grade. These walls will be stained or painted black and will have vines growing over them to soften their edges. The Plaza will feature eleven monolithic blocks lining the curved retaining wall to the northwest.  These stone blocks refer to the Teeth of the Rotary Wheel emblem. Made of Georgia Medium Grey Granite, which is a lighter grey color, these stone blocks will be more reflective in nature and less somber than black granite. 

Nine of the eleven blocks will be etched with 20 to 25 names each, serving as Name Recognition Blocks. The block at the entry will be engraved with the name of the Plaza as well as the Rotary Wheel emblem. The block at the other end of the curved retaining wall will have an explanation of the park and could contain the “updatable” signage and QR code.

All blocks will measure 4 feet tall, 33 inches wide and 24 inches deep.
Stone benches will be placed along the other, more gently-curved retaining wall. The Georgia Medium Grey Granite benches will measure 16 inches tall, 60 inches long and 16 inches deep. The seats and legs will be made of same material in a post and lintel 
construction. 

Each bench will be etched with one of the Four Way Test phrases: 
1. Is it the TRUTH?
2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

The surface of the Plaza is yet to be determined, but possible solutions include poured concrete or 
decomposed granite gravel. The Rotary Wheel will be portrayed through spoke designs and could consist of 12” wide granite embedded into the Plaza’s surface or may just be lines scored into the concrete, depending upon cost.
The widest part of the plaza has a 48 foot diameter. At this scale, the Plaza is not so expansive that a small gathering of people feels exposed and yet, it is big enough that it can comfortably handle a larger group of visitors.  

We suggest using landscape materials that will honor the blue and gold colors of Rotary as shown in the 
ornamental shrubs and grasses. Shade trees will 
effectively cool the area in the summer months of July and August. 

Ivy on the walls will give the plaza a softer atmosphere and set off the benches and Name Recognition Blocks. We also recommend a low ornamental hedge, such as holly, between the retaining wall and the sidewalk to prevent people from jumping over the wall. 

The central Rotary Wheel element is to be made entirely of brushed stainless steel. It will be oriented to read from the sidewalk and placed where its shadow will cast prominently on the plaza. In this way, it becomes an iconic signage element defining the Rotary Plaza while also being an eye-catching landmark and photo opportunity. 

This visual landmark will measure nearly 12 feet tall and 8 feet wide. At this scale, the iconic element will be instantly noticeable, yet not over-bearing within the Plaza site.

The shadows shown in these design drawings reflect the true sun/shadow surfaces for Little Rock, Arkansas. The shadows cast off of the central landmark element give a sundial effect.   

The overall design of the Plaza positions the benches in more shaded areas of the site, whereas the Name Recognition Blocks are placed to remain predominantly in the sun.

7/27/16 Scheduled for placement in Little Rock, Arkansas this Fall is the monumental "IN THE WINGS" by JANE DEDECKER and ALYSON KINKADE, NATIONAL SCULPTORS' GUILD

Depicting abstract-figurative dancers preparing for performance. The intentionally elongated limbs on the dancers emphasize their stretch. The heads and limbs of the dancers will be sculpted in the round, and cast in bronze while their tutus are cast in aluminum to create a bold, zig-zagged crescent shape. The tutu will be painted with vibrant hues. The paint will be a rich layering of colors for added depth.

With a total height of 7ft and extending 10ft wide toe to toe, the sculpture will have a powerful yet graceful presence. The combination of figurative elements with abstract; the earthy tones with vibrant ones; creates a piece that has universal appeal. 

A study and garden size is available for separate purchase in a limited editions, each uniquely painted. ​​

Introducing Colorado to its Artistic Talent" - April 24 - May 29, 2016 at the Loveland Museum/Gallery. 
Opening Night Gala: April 23.

Over the past 6 months JK Designs' Principal, John Kinkade, has been pouring much of his knowledge, time and energy into the upcoming 25th Annual Governor's Art Show Happily we are seeing great acknowledgements as the events are beginning to unfold including the opening of Re-Fine-d Gallery this Friday. We believe the art community (artists and collectors alike) will love the show and all the extras that the Board Members have planned.... Beyond the Calendar of Events there will also be artists demonstrations at varied locations each weekend for the duration of the show. Columbine's Alyson Kinkade will be painting April 30th at Studio Vino, and Guest demonstrators Sabrina Stiles and Rodgers Naylor will be at Columbine Gallery May 14th.

“This event is not only an opportunity for Colorado artists to show their work,” says board member John Kinkade, “but also to introduce Coloradans to the amazing portfolios of many artistic talents we have in our state.” Indeed, this year’s show features works in a variety of media by 55 artists exploring myriad themes. More than 300 artists submitted work to the juried show, and while there are many returning and established exhibitors, nearly 25 percent of the participants are new to the event. 
--- To mark the silver anniversary, the show includes an exhibit honoring its “legacy” artists. “This show has been instrumental in introducing new Colorado talent early in their careers,” Kinkade says. “We’re bringing these artists back to the show through the legacy program.” Works owned by the City of Loveland from each of this year’s legacy artists—Fritz White, Kim English, and Quang Ho—are on display in the museum’s Green Room. English and Ho also bring new works available for purchase. 
---Proceeds from the show benefit a number of causes and groups supported by two local Rotary clubs. They also have helped to establish art scholarships for area students.
click below to read the full Southwest Art article,

Columbine Artists in this years exhibit:
Gary Alsum
Carolyn Barlock
Amelia Caruso
Jane DeDecker
Clay Enoch
Dan Glanz
Alyson Kinkade
Amy Laugesen
Jon Paul Price
Stephen Shachtman

Enjoy seeing their work in the show as well as the gallery this Spring.

For all Colorado Artists. The 2016 Call for Artists is now open. The deadline for submissions is September 28th, 2015.

The 2016 show will be open to the public April 24 – May 29.
The show is a fundraiser for the Thompson Valley and Loveland Rotary Clubs who award art scholarships to Thompson School District R2-J students each year.
Show Sponsorships are also available.

Columbine Gallery had a great time during last year's Governor's Invitational Art Show & Sale. Pictured are a few images showing Columbine's Alyson and John at the opening gala, Carolyn Barlock and Daniel Augenstein demonstrating at the Loveland Museum/Gallery, and Jim Biggers, John and Pam during the paint off event at Osborn Farm... next year's show is coming up fast, if you are a Colorado artist - please apply. 
‪#‎CallForArtist‬ ‪#‎Apply‬ ‪#‎JuriedShow‬ ‪#‎ColoGovShow‬ ‪#‎GovernorsArtShow‬‪#‎Annual‬ ‪#‎Rotary‬ 

 National Sculptors' Guild director John Kinkade was hands on during Monday's installation of Jane DeDecker's "Early Explorers" at McEuen Park in Coeur d'Alene.  Landscaping will complete the site and this will be among the first sculptures placed in the new McEuen Park. We can't wait to see the piece in spring with complete landscape. ‪#‎PublicArt‬ ‪#‎Installation‬ #Idaho

Denny Haskew and the National Sculptors’ Guild have completed and placed a one-of-a-kind monument titled “Whispers of Oneness” for Keystone, Colorado,

The 15-foot tall bronze and Dakota sandstone sculpture was dedicated in December, 1997.  A trans morphic depiction of a Ute Medicine Man enveloped by an eagle emerging from a stone monolith. The artwork honors the Utes and their 10,000 year history in Summit County.

For these multi-media works, Denny has developed a patina that matches the unique qualities of the stone, making the materials appear as one.

The artwork was selected from a national competition by The Summit Foundation and Keystone Real Estate Developments for the River Run Events Plaza in Keystone, Colorado.

The NSG design team members for this placement were Denny Haskew, Sculptor, and John W. Kinkade, Executive Director, National Sculptors’ Guild, both of Loveland, Colorado. 

"Let these stone shapes rise
like truths inside us all.
​
Cool air caresses my being,
though these stones warm me.

Mysteries appear to merge,
perhaps an eagle is about to be born.

Stone and feather reaching upward,
drawing me into its presence of Oneness.

Eagle, Stone, Human

All whisper that ancient truth inside us all."
- Denny Haskew

• Original Narrative from the Proposal:

"During the development of this proposal it became evident that the name of this monument should be Whispers of Oneness. Our design team's research of the Ute people and their relationship to the River Run area indicates that how the valley continues to share its magic with all who visit, was how it did for thousands of years for the Utes.

As a Native American, my inspiration for this composition comes from the spiritual traditions of the Ute Tribe and the beauty of the site.  Called the Mountain People, the Ute maintained a habitation site that goes back 8,000 to 10,000 years within a stones throw of the River Run Sculpture Site.  Found at the site are arrowheads, tool manufacturing implements, paleo Indian projectiles, and many other points.
 
The sculpture will depict the harmony that we strive to reach with nature by showing a bald eagle sharing its secrets with a Ute medicine man.  The eagle's secrets were the source of the medicine man's magical healing powers and were a symbol of vibrant health.  The Utes gave their medicine men implicit trust.  Medicine men would go into a trance like state to receive the gifts from the eagles and other animals.
 
A bronze figure, one half Ute brave and one half eagle will emerge from a thirteen-foot high Dakota Sandstone monolith. Several other shorter sandstone monoliths will be grouped around it. In Native American beliefs, each stone has its own energy, soul, and tells its own story.
 
The image emerging from the stone will appear to be an eagle when viewed from the side, while from the face of the stone a Ute man enveloped by the eagle appears. When viewing the work in the round one will not be able to totally discern that one half of the figure is human and the other bird unless standing directly in front of the monolith from which the bronze figures emerge.
 
The Utes, eagles, and Dakota sandstone came together in Summit County and the Gore Range. Summit County is a prime area for eagles with the Eagles Nest Wilderness area on the border of the Summit and Eagle counties.  The Dakota sandstone is a prevalent material of fossil beds.  River Run sits on a 4,000 foot deep fossil bed and layers of Dakota sandstone remain visible to mountain visitors. The Dakota sandstone has also been used as a building material in the surrounding architecture, use of the stone will visually tie into the site.

The Utes were an open-handed and friendly people to the Euro-Americans who settled the area after gold was discovered by the Euro-Americans on August 10, 1859.  When the mining insurgence reached about 8,000 people in 1860, the Utes were still friendly and open, requesting that they just have the valleys where the game was. In 1879 the Utes were marched out of Summit County by the United States government and not at the wish of the Summit Euro-Americans.  This sculpture honors the Utes and their 10,000 year history in Summit County.

This competition has been both educational and inspirational to me.  During my life, I have been a ski instructor as well as a River Ranger for the National Park Service.  Studying the Ute tribe and its relationship to this site, and understanding the quality of experience and setting you wish to provide all of the visitors, has provided me an opportunity to convey my own philosophy of the importance of humanity's oneness with nature." -Denny Haskew, National Sculptors' Guild

1997 NSG Public Art Placement 49
#Throwback #NationalSculptorsGuild #PublicArt #NSG #DennyHaskew #Figurative #Bronze #WhispersOfOneness #Ute #Keystone #Colorado #SummitCounty #IndeginousPeople #SculptureIsATeamSport #ArtistDriven #ClientMinded