The artists at the Creative Arts Center of ARK Regional Services are working on a large-scale sculpture made of sheet metal for the University of Wyoming Art Museum's major exhibition of public art, "Sculpture: A Wyoming Invitational."
Inspired by Alexander Calder's large, colorful and whimsical stabiles and guided by visual arts coordinator Debbie Garner and local artist Alison Arnold, ARK artists are creating their own interior designs for the yet-to-be-named sculpture. People will be able to walk both around and inside the sculpture, which will be placed in front of the Creative Art Center at 1174 N. 4th St.
"This project is an exciting artistic experience for the participants," says Mary Arnold, manager of the Creative Arts Center. "They are learning about Alexander Calder, a renowned American artist, as well as three-dimensional design, group cohesiveness and the process and production of public sculpture.
"The Creative Arts Center provides opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities to explore and express their creativity and learn and grow in an integrated and enriched community environment."We are thrilled that ARK agreed to participate in this community-wide celebration of art," says Susan Moldenhauer, director and chief curator of the UW Art Museum. "The efforts ARK's administration, teachers, and residents to create a special work or this exhibition are remarkable."
The ARK Creative Arts Center won a 2006 Wyoming Governor's Arts Award for its innovative arts programs for adults with intellectual disabilities.
