Update 8/30/2024: Site work for the Armed Forces Memorial commissioned by the City of Paramount has been underway by our team in California, Advanced Aquatics. They have done a superb job forming and pouring the 15-ft diameter foundation for the granite Seals to lay on. Meanwhile, Clark Memorials in Alabama has completed the bronze elements. This memorial has involved individuals and companies from across the nation; Colorado, Washington, Alabama, and California; how fitting for a space that honors those who serve and remembers those who have sacrificed all for our country. Update 7/10/2024: The Armed Forces Memorial is making big progress, the stone for the circular plaza has been cut, finished and etched with the Armed Forces Seals. Special thanks to Coverall Stone for making this portion happen.
You can see from our conceptual approach, this is a major part of the Armed Forces Memorial. This placement is next to the Veteran's Memorial Plaza by NSG charter member Mark Leichliter that we placed in 2007, and the soldier will be facing the American Flag that is set between the two memorials. Mark helped us again with this project providing the vector graphics for the seals that were etched into the stone.
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Update 6/3/2024: It took all of the month of May to install the 8+ tons of stone pavers for Inspiration Plaza. It looks terrific. Can you see the bow-tie?? Our inspiration came from a special human who has transformed the River Front Park, #IYKYK The columns will be engraved next, followed by the installation of the sculptures the end of June. We look forward to sharing those images! Update 4/17/2024: The National Sculptors’ Guild is on-site to oversee the installation of several elements for “Inspiration Plaza” a multifaceted art placement and public space designed by John Kinkade for Riverfront Park in Little Rock, Arkansas. It’s exciting to see over a years’ worth of work come together. And that’s a wrap for now… 8.5 tons of basalt from Coverall Stone Inc. is in place. Next up will be 8 tons of pavers from Tribble Stone followed by engraving and another crane date to place the bronze and stainless steel sculptures by Denny Haskew and Mark Leichliter. We can’t wait! Deep thanks to Jackie Collins & the Little Rock Parks and Rec team! “Inspiration Plaza” Designed by John Kinkade, Art Elements by Denny Haskew and Mark Leichliter, Site Development by the Little Rock Parks & Recreation, commissioned through the Sculpture at the River Market, special thanks to Colorado Waterjet Company, Art Castings of Colorado, Shippers' Supply Custom Pack, Landstar, Coverall Stone, and Tribble Stone Company Update 3/28/24: It may not look like much yet, but this is where public art starts, the foundation is where art meets site and becomes a beacon to gather. You can already see the design coming together. The stainless-steel braces, electrical conduit and concrete footing/pad are in and things are starting to taking shape in Little Rock. We're planning our trip to install the columns after this has properly cured! #GettingCloser Update 10/18/2023: We’ve loaded up this morning and have #SculptureOnTheMove to #LittleRock AR. This truck has 5 sculptures, 2 bases, and a bunch of stainless steel structures for installation and footings. But wait, there’s more; we’ll have another two truck loads lined up for one of these projects. Special thanks to Denny Haskew, Mark Leichliter, Art Castings of Colorado, and Shippers' Supply Custom Pack for help with creating, packing and loading; and Landstar Trucking for getting our artwork to its new home where Sculpture at the River Market will receive it and Little Rock Parks & Recreation will help us install. #SculptureIsATeamSport
Last night the City of Cerritos' council members approved the art selection committee's recommendation to proceed with our proposal "Milking Time" by Jane DeDecker. The sculpture will be enlarged to 110% life-size be DeDecker, cast in bronze, and placed in Cerritos, California in Summer of 2025 at a site to be determined.
We wished to honor the dairy farmers of Dairy Valley in their fortitude and family values, they established a space for their community to grow and prosper for generations. The bronze sculpture depicts a farmer's family taking on the task of milking one of their cows. The figures are sculpted in a manner that allows the viewer to insert their history and narrative to the piece. The scene on one side of the cow shows a man, (could be a farm hand, or a father or grandfather) he is doing the actual milking but his attention is drawn to a young girl (daughter or granddaughter) who has come in with a bowl to see if she can get some fresh milk for the cat that is rubbing at her heels. On the other side of the cow, a young person, (could be a field hand, or son/grandson) is seen spreading grain or pelleted feed from a bag for the cow to eat while being milked to keep her calm and happy during the process. Together the chore gets accomplished until the next milking later in the day. The Cat will be finished in black and white with pink nose.
The Cow will be finished in black and white with pink udders. The three figures, stool, bucket and feed bag will be finished in a traditional brown.
Update 2/28/2024: Bronze Services Foundry has done a phenomenal job finishing the bronze, Gary Alsum's sculptures are ready for patina and we're one step closer to seeing these placed at the City of Cerritos, California this summer.
Update 8/23/2023: Nothing to lose your head about, it’s just moving day to the mold-maker. The high temps made us wait a few extra days to transport the clay. Gary Alsum's Special Enforcement Bureau sculpture for our Tribute to Public Safety Plaza has entered the next stage of creating the master mold, then will continue on with the lost-wax process of cast bronze. Update 8/4/2023: Gary Alsum's Special Enforcement Bureau sculpture for our Tribute to Public Safety Plaza has been completed in clay and approved by the city. It's on it's next stage of creating the master mold, then will continue on with the lost-wax process of cast bronze. The commissioners were particularly pleased by the amount of detail Gary has captured in the uniforms and characteristics of the officers. The K9 depicted is "Jack" a revered Belgian Malinois that was lost in the line of duty in 2022. "K9 Jack saved numerous lives and courageously protected members of the Bureau during countless tactical operations." -LA Sheriff Robert Luna Three of Gary's bronze monuments are part of a larger composition that our design team developed. The Tribute to First Responders plaza includes a Department Memorial and 9/11 Memorial and components that honor today's officers. We are always honored to be part of honoring first responders, and are really looking forward to seeing this project realized for the dedicated department members. Update 2/1/2023: The Female Officer sculpture has been poured into wax, ready to transform into bronze. She's already looking great! Update: 1/5/2023 Things are progressing on the Tribute to Public Safety project for the City of Cerritos. Gary Alsum's fire fighter casting is nearing completion at Bronze Services Foundry. Not to worry, he'll get that helmet on. Certain elements on the sculpture have been customized to match LA County badges and gear. Next comes patina on this one. Update 12/11/2022: We've completed the landscape plans with help from Diaz Landscape Architecture and site work will commence soon. As we designed, the overall 51-ft x 54-ft site will include: Three Bronze Monuments; 9/11 Memorial; Department Memorial. 7-ft x 16-ft Tribute Wall with engraving of Plaza Title, City Insignia, Department Badges and quotation; 4-ft x 12-ft East Wall with two engraved quotations; Concrete Plaza; Lights; Flag Pole, White Roses. Decompressed Granite area with Bosque of Trees. Update 11/7/2022: Gary Alsum has finished sculpting the Female Deputy Sheriff in clay. She's off to the foundry to begin the bronze casting process. Update 5/26/2022: The Hardscape Design Elements have been refined and the stone is ordered. Lettering will be etched into several tons of granite for this placement. 2/18/2022: You may not realize, but monumental placements start small. On this one, we went REAL SMALL. John created a model of the site with our proposed layouts for the city to choose from. We've just been approved on our design for the City of Cerritos' First Responders Plaza which will be located in front of the Sheriff's Department. Our design team is transforming the 2500 sq ft lawn into an artful gathering space that honors first responders. Three monumental bronze sculptures by NSG's Gary Alsum will be the focal point of our Tribute to Public Safety. Granite walls will be adorned by quotes and insignia. A memorial will be placed to pay tribute to the city's fallen officers. And a Bosque of Trees forms a nurturing space to house the new 9/11 memorial. The entire site becomes a piece of art. We are really pleased with the design and how this will enhance the community. We are looking forward to sharing the process here, stay tuned. #HappyNewYear Here is a look back at the public art placements we did in 2023. We are excited about installing many more next year, some already in progress. Click here to view the list of 550 significant sculpture statements we've placed to date. Thank you for appreciating art and supporting our team of artists. May 2024 bring you health, peace, and happiness. 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. ABOUT THE ARTIST: Denny Haskew currently resides in Loveland, Colorado where he is actively engaged in the art industry as a sculptor. He received his degree from the University of Utah, then served two years in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Having spent numerous years as a guide and ski instructor, Denny has learned to love the rivers and mountains of the western states of Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, and Utah. After moving to Loveland, a hub of successful working sculptors, he wasted no time in getting monumental sculpture experience through working with renowned sculptors in the area. Since 1987, Denny has created and placed dozens of monumental compositions; spanning the full spectrum of the figurative genre. As a member of the Potawatomi Citizen Nation, it is only natural for his artwork to follow the Native American culture. His art has not been limited to Native American and southwestern subjects, however, as he frequently explores abstract forms placing emphasis on the qualities of the metal and stone used. As a Charter member of the National Sculptors' Guild and being close to other sculptors and the Loveland area foundries has helped him to master all the foundry processes involved in producing a desirable and lasting monumental bronze sculpture. Over 50 major public placements include the Smithsonian Institution, DC.; the Gilcrease Museum, OK; Cerritos, CA; Little Rock, AR; the Shakopee Mdewakanton Dakota Sioux collection, MN, and the Barona Band of Mission Indians, CA. His outlook on life and sculpture largely stems from his Irish/Potawatomi heritage. He states "....the strength of my artwork ascends from the spirit of the people portrayed - Native Americans, Mayans, friends, children, people of the Great Plains and West. This same spirit connects each of us with the harmony of nature and one's relationship to another." Concern with composition and fascination with the human form lead him to portray bodies in unusual, sometimes nearly contorted positions. Dramatically individualistic facial features combine with carefully composed body positions to reveal souls filled with emotion, scarred and given character by the circumstances of living, but never beaten by life. Haskew’s artwork conveys his innermost being. It is intensely personal and honest. His themes are recurring: Spirit, Love, Forgiveness, Healing, Relationship, Endurance, the Sacredness of the Human Spirit, and the Strength in each of us, the Power of all that is Natural. Update 9/22/2023: The City of Loveland has accepted the Guild's proposed donation from the Council of Catholic Women and a site has been selected. 'Trail of Forgiveness' by Denny Haskew will be placed in Spring 2024. The site is at the city's Police & Courts Building at 810 E. 10th Street. The Visual Arts Commission has expressed their gratitude for this generous donation to Loveland’s public art collection. The sculpture is meant to be open to interpretation by the viewer with the hope that it will convey a loving and spiritual message meaningful to all. "Grandmother’s sunrise prayer, as solid of a soul as can be found. See your road better now closed eyes and all. Know that all your enemies were really only teachers for you. We walk together now on this path called Forgiveness. We each have a trail of forgiveness to follow and this sculpture reminds me of mine." -DH
The City of Cerritos, California has selected Denny Haskew's "Moulding Our Future" to add to their public art collection. The bronze sculpture captures a simple moment between mother and child. A moment all may identify with, as a parent looking onward in strength and resolve that all their efforts will go toward making their child's life as good possible. As the child, excitedly taking in every new bit of the world uninhibited by the worries mom may have, protected in her embrace.
Denny Haskew's Strength of the Maker has been installed in the City of Cerritos Sculpture Garden. Additional landscaping will enhance the bronze sculpture placement. But it already looks like a good home in our minds. Special thanks to Advanced Aquatics and Capital Crane for the wonderful installation work, and to Shipper's Supply for getting the artwork there safely. Click here to see a video of the installation.
Winner of 5 Best of Show Awards; ”Strength of the Maker, right from its title…to the strength shown even in the toes, is a statement on how I view my very inner belief.” -DH Only one casting remains in the limited edition of 21. Click here to purchase. Other prominent placements of the edition include: National Museum of the American Indian - Smithsonian Institution in DC; the Gilcrease Museum, OK; the Barona Band of Mission Indians, CA; and the Wolf Creek Indian Village & Museum, Bastian, VA; Briscoe Western Art Museum, San Antonio, TX; District Courthouse, Flagstaff, AZ; City of Grand Junction, CO; Canyon City, CO; and major private collections throughout the US. In November, the City of Little Rock installed National Sculptors' Guild Fellow Jane DeDecker's Portrait of Daisy Lee Gatson Bates in Little Rock, AR. The bronze bust of the civil rights activist, Arkansas NAACP president, and pioneering black journalist (1914-1999), is situated in Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Park in her former hometown. The portrait is just one acknowledgment of Bates’ legacy in the river town which also boasts a Daisy Bates Museum, several named streets, and a “Daisy Bates Day” celebrated the third Monday of February every year. The bust also includes a plaque with a quote by the human rights advocate: “When hate won’t die, use it for good.” The outdoor sculpture walk winds along the Arkansas River and includes over 90 works of art in its collection. The Bates sculpture is near the Main Street overpass on the Eastern side of the art garden. update 5/20/22: The bust and plaques have been cast in bronze and shipped to Little Rock. We will update with photos once the city has installed the memorial. 10/15/21: National Sculptors' Guild Fellow Jane DeDecker has been selected to sculpt Daisy Bates for placement in the City of Little Rock, Arkansas. The honor to portray such an important figure is a true highlight. The life-sized bronze bust will be accompanied by a wall of bronze plaques featuring quotations by the great Civil Rights Activist. The public display of her image and words will serve well to inspire next generations to take her lead to end racial injustice. "I have been truly inspired and deeply moved by the strength and dedication of Daisy Lee Gatson Bates. She turned tragedy into her life's work in fighting against prejudice, segregation, and inequality. Daisy Lee Gatson Bates was a formidable woman who would not stand down." - Jane DeDecker, NSG The commemorative placement will be completed in 2022. Updates will be posted here. Daisy Lee Gatson Bates Mentor to the Little Rock Nine Advocate for Equality About Daisy Lee Gatson Bates...Daisy Bates was an elegant woman, physically small, though grand in stature when her determination to end racial injustice was involved. She confronted racism and adversity from an early age. Personal confrontations led to speaking out and heading large organizations; providing great change for the state of Arkansas, and beyond. No one prepares to be the face of change for a nation, Daisy Bates took on her role with grace and fortitude. Unwaveringly, she rose to all of the challenges, her diminutive body seemingly too small for the power she exuded. Small but mighty, Mrs. Bates informed and organized Arkansas' Civil Rights movement. Her resilience to the fear tactics used gave her a reputation of calm in the face of adversity. Jail time, fires on lawns and bricks thrown through windows seemed only to make the fight more just and purposeful. Though Mrs. Bates is most known for her involvement in the Little Rock Desegregation Crisis of 1957, her contributions etch far deeper. The weekly newspaper that she and her husband published helped inform and activate civil rights movements across the state, and beyond, before and after the integration of Central High School. From 1941 to 1959 the Arkansas State Press was one of the only newspapers solely dedicated to the Civil Rights Movement. She was known to publish controversial articles that others shied away from. Daisy Bates worked with local Civil Rights organizations including joining the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People in 1952. For many years, she served as the President of the Arkansas chapter of the NAACP, providing support to many opportunities for the black community, assuring her role in the 1957 desegregation efforts. She was well respected in the community, even her opponents had to admit she was a force to reckon with. Her repose during crisis after crisis kept the forward motion of the Civil Rights Movement going; and her tenacious charge afforded generations of students access to their constitutional rights. Public Art Installed at Fire Station 33 Public art for the new Fire Station 33, 4109 S. 134th East Ave., has been installed this week, and this commissioned work, titled “Protect,” is available for the public to enjoy. The 6-foot-tall, stainless steel sculpture is near the flag pole and public parking lot on the west side of Station 33. The Arts Commission of the City of Tulsa chose the design team of Joe Norman and the National Sculptors’ Guild for this project. According to the National Sculptors’ Guild, this sculpture, fabricated at Joe Norman’s studio in Loveland, Colo., is intended to “activate the site and signify the exemplary service of firefighters in a single, free-standing sculpture.” “The Arts Commission is very impressed with this artist,” Commission Chair Pam Deatherage said. “It’s an interactive piece that changes as you walk around it. Tulsa is very fortunate to have initiated, in 1964, a program where art is provided as part of the project budget - the 1% funded public arts ordinance - to include creative pieces on display at our public buildings.” Standing on a 1,650-pound sandstone base, the sculpture has red letters spelling the word “Protect,” visible from one direction. Two other perspectives show the gray silhouette of a firefighter. Also according to the National Sculptors’ Guild, the final side, opposite “Protect,” is “an abstraction, symbolic of the unknowns that firefighters face.” “To have the word “Protect” in fire-engine red strengthens what this word means to those in service and the community it serves,” said John Kinkade, director of the National Sculptors’ Guild. Norman describes his work as “creating public sculptures that show different images or words depending on the viewpoint of the observer.” Norman said, “I believe that having multiple ideas coexist in a single piece is a useful metaphor for the ecosystem of ideas that public art empowers and protects.” Joe Norman and the National Sculptors’ Guild installed the art with help from Tulsa subcontractors. “Sculpture is a team sport,” Kinkade said. “Thank you, City of Tulsa, the Arts Commission, Tribble Stone, Voy Construction, Barnhart Excavating, American Pipe Bending, Landstar System, and the community of Tulsa. We are so proud to be part of honoring firefighters through this art placement.” A public hose uncoupling ceremony for Fire Station 33 was held in September. Hose uncoupling is a fire service tradition similar to a ribbon cutting ceremony. Funding for this new fire station has come from the 2001 Third Penny Sales Tax and the 2013 Improve Our Tulsa sales tax. The Public Safety Sales Tax, which was approved in 2016 with the Vision Tulsa sales tax, has provided funding to hire more firefighters to fully staff this new station. - City of Tulsa, Nov. 16, 2022 Update 11/9/2022: Fire Engine red paint has been added and the sculpture has been set in its cradle, the stone has been drilled (thanks Tribble Stone) and everything is ready for transport to Tulsa. Update 10/14/2022: Our project with the City of Tulsa, Oklahoma is all but ready to install. Some Fire Engine Red will complete the look. Just a few more weeks and Joe Norman’s firefighter sculpture “Protect will be in its new home at Fire Station 33. Stay tuned for pics of the install. Update 9/23/2022: Barnhart Excavating poured the footing for "Protect" at Fire Station 33 on a blue-sky day in Tulsa. Update 9/15/2022: Things are really growing. we're about half way through the fabrication phase. Update 9/1/2022: The monument isn't ready yet, but "Protect" was at the dedication of Fire Station 33 in a small way. The maquette was present during the celebration, and even made it into the hands of the Chief. We couldn't be happier with the initial response and are also feeling great about our red matching the engine. #NailedIt Congratulations on your new Fire Station, Tulsa! Update 7/6/2022: Our project with the @cityoftulsa for their Fire Station 33 is taking shape. We are very excited to see Joe Norman’s firefighter sculpture “Protect” develop. Engineering is complete and Joe has created the final maquette. Full-size enlargement is next.
Update 2/9/2022: Our project with the @cityoftulsa is finally underway. We are very excited to see Joe Norman’s firefighter sculpture “Protect” develop from the concept design to the study you see here. We will keep you posted as it grows. "I’ve been chasing down public art projects to honor service workers. Specifically those who put themselves at risk so that we may have a more healthy society: physically, mentally, and socially." -Joe Norman 6/9/2021: Joe Norman's "Protect" is earmarked for placement in front of the City of Tulsa's Fire Department 33. The 6-ft tall stainless steel sculpture depicts the silhouette of a firefighter from one angle, and the word protect from another. The National Sculptors' Guild's proposal of Norman's work was selected from an open call to artists to place "Protect". Our initial approach for this site is to place a free-standing sculpture from Norman's word play series activating as much of the site as possible. The iconic sculpture will be fabricated from stainless steel,
with one side painted in durable epoxy paint to tie into the building's aesthetic. The first thing that comes to mind for us when thinking about a fire-fighter is the word "Protect" so that word is viewed from one direction. The other perspective shows the silhouette of a fire-fighter approaching their call to action. Opposite the word is an abstraction, symbolic of the unknowns that fire-fighter's face.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations are made in Carol’s honor to Democracy Now! KPFA, The Sierra Club, the Marin Land Trust or Planned Parenthood. Craig Campbell’s “Abracadabra” is installed in its new home of Little Rock, Arkansas. Sculpture at the River Market commissioned this magical piece from us a year ago. And we just love how it turned out, right down to the colorful patina. This sculpture depicts an aspiring Magician whimsically practicing his tricks for the attentive audience of a dog, a mouse, and a stuffed bunny. My inspiration in creating Abracadabra is as a reminder that there is a power greater than us all and it is important to look for the “magic” in everything. #PublicArt #JustInstalled #CraigCampbell #NSG #NationalSculptorsGuild #Abracadabra #Arkansas #LittleRock #Bronze #Commission #Sculpture #Magic #Magician #MagicInArt #ArtistDriven #ClientMinded #SculptureIsATeamSport #CelebratingThirtyYears Update 11/5/2021: The clay has been fine tuned and approved by the city. Can you spy all the hidden gems in the piece? He has included a snail, a frog, a mouse, dog and bunny. Maybe more... It will be a fun sculpture for people to discover all the tricks Craig had up his sleeve in the making of it. #PublicArt #WIP #CraigCampbell #NSG #NationalSculptorsGuild #Abracadabra #Arkansas #LittleRock #Bronze #Commission #Sculpture #Magic #Magician #MagicInArt #ArtistDriven #ClientMinded #SculptureIsATeamSport #WorkInProgressWednesday Update 9/15/21: Craig Campbell has been hard at work and the enlargement is nearly complete. Soon the magician and their assistants will head to the foundry to be transformed into bronze. Update 8/1/21: The maquette has formed, and Abracadabra is starting to come to life... Update 6/1/21: Craig Campbell and the National Sculptors' Guild will be placing a new bronze in the Little Rock, Arkansas public art collection, "Abracadabra" will soon add a bit more magic to the area. This sculpture depicts an aspiring Magician whimsically practicing his tricks for an attentive audience of his dog, a mouse, and a stuffed bunny. My inspiration in creating Abracadabra is as a reminder that there is a power greater than us all and it is important to look for the “magic” in everything. In this piece I set out to create a fun, approachable, engaging monument to the simple joys of life, and the belief that with friends, focus, practice, and perhaps a bit of magic we can overcome all difficulties. A smile can be contagious! Abracadabra is meant to spread a bit of happiness and hopefully share a smile with all who engage with it. We’ve just installed Macro/Micro Discoveries by Clay Enoch and the National Sculptors' Guild at Surprise Lake Middle School in Milton, WA. The school is phenomenal and we’re so proud to be a small part of it through this artwork. Special thanks to everyone; Tom, Don, Clint and Mark from @slms.sabers, Mike and Deanne from @artswa, installation expertise from NSG sculptor @markleichliter, @shipperssupplycustompack, @artcastingsco foundry, and last but not least - all the SLMS students that will enjoy this sculpture on their campus. #SculptureIsATeamSport “Macro/Micro Discoveries” is a statement about the explorative nature of learning, where new worlds open up, big and small, with a simple shift in perspective. The student body is represented by two bronze figures. Glass elements symbolize the abstract subject. The figures are united by a stainless-steel architectural frame, the window to the worlds of discovery. Update 3/23/22: We've just met at the foundry to dry fit the glass and discuss installation needs for Macro/Micro Discoveries by Clay Enoch and the National Sculptors Guild. We'll be in Washington the first part of April to install at Surprise Lake Middle School, stay tuned... Update 3/8/22: All the pieces are put back together again and patina applied. Art Castings of Colorado did a beautiful job, as always. The sculpture is ready for us to set up installation day. We are very excited to see this piece in place. Update 1/19/22: The bronze has been cast and the figures are in the process of being chased together again while the stainless steel frame is fabricated. All coming together for a Spring install. Update 10/14/21: The site has been prepped and footing/base poured. Ready for the sculpture to be placed. Thanks Thad, Paul, Winston and crew at Hoffman Reconstruction! Update 9/15/21: The mold was made, the wax is poured, the next step is casting in bronze at Art Castings. 6/16/2021: Clay Enoch and the National Sculptors' Guild were selected by Washington State Arts Commission to place "Macro/Micro Discoveries" at the new Surprise Lake Middle School in Milton, Washington. The sculpture is planned for installation in 2022. “Macro/Micro Discoveries” is a statement about the explorative nature of learning, where new worlds open up, big and small, with a simple shift in perspective. The student body is represented by two bronze figures. Glass elements symbolize the abstract subject. The figures are united by a stainless steel architectural frame, the window to the worlds of discovery. This unique composition meets the committee’s desires for the project: bringing excitement and interest for education, being relatable to students, encouraging interaction and gatherings, playing on dynamics of gravity, relating to nature, and inspiring the imagination. Macro is depicted by a young boy telescopically looking through a cylinder at the broader universe. Micro shown by a young girl investigating a cube within a cube. The use of geometry in the forms further ties to learning from nature's building blocks. The frame of the sculpture invites students to become part of the composition, gather around it, take selfies, and explore how they may relate to the figures that are depicted. Enlargement: Maquette:
The installation in Paramount, California was picture perfect. Jane DeDecker's "Ratification Flag", a 12-foot commemorative bronze looks incredible in its new home adjacent to the city's Veteran's Memorial Plaza which we designed in 2007. Special thanks to all involved in this project.... the City of Paramount, DeDecker Studio, Madd Castings, Capitol Crane, Martino and Luth and Tribble Stone. Inspired by the Suffrage Movement flag of the early 1900's, we proposed the flag be placed singularly as a monolithic form sculpted in bronze. This sculpture honors the 100 year commemoration of the ratification of the 19th Amendment: Women's right to vote. It also represents the present day progress, and serves as a reminder of the continued efforts being made toward equality. This commemorative placement honoring women's rights is particularly fitting for the City of Paramount as they celebrate its 2020 election of an all-female City Council, only the 5th time in the state of California. #NationalSculptorsGuild #NSG #PublicArt #JaneDeDecker #RatificationFlag #ParamountCA #Bronze #Custom #Monument #FineArt #SculptureIsATeamSport #ArtistDriven #ClientMinded #CelebratingThirtyYears 2/15/2022: Things are really getting exciting now! The metal has been poured and chased and the patina is going on, Patina day fell on Susan B. Anthony's birthday!! We couldn't have picked a more appropriate date. Below is Jane with the 12-ft bronze, prepping and applying the patina. #VotesForWomen #RatificationFlag #PatinaDay Update 11/10/2021: The wax panels have been poured for the 12ft flag. Chasing the wax begins to prepare for the next step of the lost wax process. Sprues are added to help guide the metal in an even and thorough flow. A ceramic shell is added in multiple coats surrounding the wax. This hard shell allows for the wax to be melted out (lost wax) leaving a cavity for the molten bronze to be poured into. The metal pour will be done at Madd Castings with more process to follow. Update 10/25/2021: Jane DeDecker's clay enlargement of the Ratification Flag is under a layer of mold material and foam. It may look strange, now, but this is going to be a magnificent bronze banner in a few months. Jane elected a different material than the plaster she normally uses to back the mother mold because the foam will allow for larger panels that weigh less. Plus, carrying plaster buckets up the ladder 12-ft wasn't something anyone in the studio wanted to do. We're excited the casting process will be underway for this piece that is destined for Paramount, California soon. 5/25/2021: Jane DeDecker and the National Sculptors' Guild have been selected to create a Commemorative Sculpture honoring the ratification of the 19th Amendment & Paramount's 2020 election of an all-female City Council for the City of Paramount, California. The 12-ft high bronze sculpture will be placed in Progress Park later this year. “In commemoration of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution on August 18, 1920 that provided all women of our nation with the right to vote. Upon this Centennial, the City of Paramount celebrates its 2020 election of an all-female City Council, only the fifth such Council in the history of the State of California. The City’s record of inclusiveness dates back to its incorporation in 1957 when Gladys Iliff was elected to the first City Council and named Paramount’s first Vice Mayor. Councilmember Isabel Aguayo Councilmember Laurie Guillen Councilmember Vilma Cuellar Stallings Vice Mayor Brenda Olmos Mayor Peggy Lemons "The best protection any woman can have... is courage." —Elizabeth Cady Stanton, chief philosopher of the woman’s suffrage movement” Jane has already begun sculpting the front of the flag as it is part of the composition for the National Women's Suffrage Monument. Working off of a wax from the mold of the study for the Washington DC Memorial, the maquette gives an idea of how the flag will look. We are suggesting that the 19th Amendment go on the detailed side of the ratification flag and narrative for Paramount go on the other side where there is more room. She has put wording on the model, but on the enlargement the text will be smaller and more contained as detailing will be easier to achieve on the larger piece. The stars will be on only one side of the banner as historically this was how it was created. The narrative for the city will go on the flattest area of the side without stars. We may also want to have a plaque elsewhere on the plaza explaining the significance of the flag and its 36 stars. Another gorgeous placement in Paramount from today, Mark Leichliter's "Event Horizon" is now part of Progress Park. The 7-foot tall stainless steel sculpture is such a beautiful addition to the city's growing public art collection. Special thanks to all involved in this project.. "The concept behind the sculpture has to do with the theorized existence of a gravitational border around a black hole beyond which nothing can escape. I wondered what it might look like to see something torn apart but not completely consumed by the black hole; what might the remnants look like as they were spun off into space?" #NationalSculptorsGuild #NSG #PublicArt #MarkLeichliter #EventHorizon #ParamountCA #StainlessSteel #Custom #Monument #FineArt #SculptureIsATeamSport #ArtistDriven #ClientMinded #CelebratingThirtyYears Update 12/15/2021: It's finished in metal!!! Mark Leichliter has been working hard the past few months and "Event Horizon" is nearly ready for placement in Paramount's Progress Park. The 7-foot stainless-steel sculpture will join some of the National Sculptors' Guild's past public placements in the same park. It already looks amazing in the studio. We're looking forward to taking this out to Paramount, California soon to install. Stay tuned. #NationalSculptorsGuild #NSG #PublicArt #SculptureIsATeamSport #ArtistDriven #ClientMinded Update 12/1/21: Mark Leichliter's Event Horizon is getting close to completion in metal. Mark has been busy welding and finishing lots of stainless steel. 9/1/2021: We're heading to Paramount, California again soon, the city has just selected Mark Leichliter's Event Horizon for a placement in Paramount's Progress Park. The 7-foot stainless steel sculpture will join some of our past placements in the same park. The installation is planned for later this year. "The concept behind the sculpture has to do with the theorized existence of a gravitational border around a black hole beyond which nothing can escape. I wondered what it might look like to see something torn apart but not completely consumed by the black hole; what might the remnants look like as they were spun off into space?" #NationalSculptorsGuild #NSG #PublicArt #SculptureIsATeamSport #ArtistDriven #ClientMinded NSG Public Art Placement 134: Our largest placement by Sharles through the National Sculptors' Guild is "The Amaryllis Fountain" designed for the Civic Plaza of the City of Cerritos, California. Images show various points in the creation of the multifaceted sculpture that featured a central 9ft tall bronze Amaryllis surrounded by Four vignettes of a Swan, Frog, Koi and Turtle accompanied by sculpted water lilies, and shorter stemmed amaryllis, plus natural aquatic plants. Water streams from the center of each flower in the 16-ft diameter composition. All finished in his signature vibrant colors; Sharles never shied away from a bold stroke of color. Artist's Statement: “These last several years I have been fascinated with wildlife and water in the application of my art. My work with the American Endangered Species Foundation has deepened my appreciation for birds, fish and reptiles. I have created baroque-like fountains incorporating these wonderful creatures in as many places as possible. Water is most appropriate for these animals and creates an ambiance that captures the imagination for hours. I have created my fountain pieces so they have multi-functions and can be applied in many ways and combinations. My studies in Central Europe, Rome and England as well as in Japan and Hong Kong, have influenced my style considerable. The classical art of the Baroque, 18th Century Rococo, Renaissance and religious art of Europe and the Orient fascinates me. The antique art of Pompeii, Herculaneum, Central Europe and the Orient intrigue me and affect my work considerable. My studies in Montreal, Boston and New York have deepened my interest and research into the environment and the life it supports. My work is dedicated to dramatizing the plight of wildlife and environmental concerns. My loose impressionistic technique allows me to capture the essence of these creatures in energetic and somewhat startling tableaus filled with images of their haunting beauty. My work is not mainstream wildlife isolated with the animals isolated from their environment or from other wildlife. I aim for a fresh yet mysterious drama, full of enchantment, adventure and a fluid beauty woven with the exotic imagery and lush abundance of prehistoric times. I visualize great roaring waterfalls, volcanic landmasses arising from pounding oceans and rain forests of lost worlds teeming with myriad forms of life all shrouded in vast clouds of mists and rain, invoking seemingly ancient vistas. Butterflies, orchids, giant dragonflies, as well as the exotic tropical birds, parrots and owls interact with turtles, lizards, alligators and fish forming collections that fascinate and delight.” -Sharles Initial conceptual sketches, different iterations that still incorporated the Amaryllis as the focus: Proposed Concept: Amaryllis Fountain The pool for the sculpture is in the shape of a circle. The complete fountain is comprised of a central sculpture element with eight sculptures surrounding it. In all, there are eleven jets of water. The central sculpture is eleven feet high. It is an amaryllis bulb with two leaves and two stem stalks coming out of the crown of the bulb. One of the stems is short with buds on it and the other is tall with three open flowers with stamens. A jet of water flows from the center of each of these flowers into the pool. On the individual compass points of the circle are sculptures of a turtle, a fish, a frog and a swan emerging from lily pads. A water lily flower is placed among the pads for additional interest. Jets of water flow from the flowers towards the center of the pool. On each of the figure’s backs are four-foot high amaryllis bulbs with flower stalks. It appears that they have dislodged them from the shoreline. Maquettes sculpted in wax, cast into bronze and hand painted by the artist shown below: Enlargement and casting process: Sharles studied extensively in Europe and the East Coast of the United States.
SHARLES' Public commissions include: “Left Hand of God” for the Atlantic City Courthouse, a bas-relief for the City of Palm Desert, CA, “Moonbeam” for Centaur-West Galleries, Chicago, IL and North Shore Nursing Home, Loveland, CO, “Evolution of Flight” for Continental Airlines, “Angel of Caring” for United Way, “Great American Eagle Fountain” for J.M.J. Corporation, a bas-relief for the Omaha Botanical Gardens, Omaha, NE and a bas-relief for the Loveland Museum and Gallery, Loveland, CO. Other private and corporate commissions include:
Gary Alsum’s “Tried and True” was dedicated at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond during their Veteran's Memorial Service. The two soldiers are sculpted back to back. One in full combat uniform, the other dressed for class. Minimizing space between the figures creates a single form. Symbolically, this depiction shows how the soldiers rely on one another as they literally have each other’s back – in service, or in civilian life; they stand together in a life-long connection. This camaraderie extends to the family of Veterans which can be felt through this composition as well. It can connect with relatives, friends, and fellow service people, creating a space for reflection from any path of life. The National Sculptors' Guild has had the honor of placing a number of monuments commemorating Veteran’s across the nation. We extend our gratitude and respect to all Veteran’s. Thank you for your services. NSG Public Placement #530 Update 12/17/2020: Gary Alsum's Tried and True has been completed in bronze and is on it's way to the University of Central Oklahoma. The sculpture will be stored there until the site is completed and can be placed. Thanks to Bronze Services of Colorado for another job well done. 5/24/2020:: Gary Alsum and the National Sculptors' Guild were selected by the University of Central Oklahoma to create a Veteran's Memorial for their Edmond, Oklahoma campus. The composition is titled "Tried and True" The desire of the committee was to honor two individuals as a memorial - one depicted as a soldier and one as a student - who were close to the UCO family and by extension represent all others who have served to defend our liberties. Gary chose to depict the two soldiers, back to back. One in full combat uniform, the other dressed for class. Minimizing space between the figures creates a single form. Symbolically, this depiction shows how the soldiers rely on one another as they literally have each other’s back – in service, or in civilian life; they stand together in a life-long connection. This camaraderie extends to the family of Veterans which can be felt through this composition as well. It can connect with relatives, friends, and fellow service people, creating a space for reflection from any path of life. The clay enlargement is shown below... 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. |
JK Design/NSGJK Designs’ Principal, John Kinkade, founded the National Sculptors’ Guild in 1992 with a handful of sculptors who wished to find thoughtful public applications for their work. Representation has since grown to over 20 contracted sculptors and painters; plus an extended network of 200+ artists that our design team works with on a regular basis to meet each project's unique needs. click here for a list of our over 500 large-scale placements. Archives
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