The IndependentKeeping us connected to the arts as a community is one of the primary goals of Art Around the Corner (AAC). For the past decade the volunteer efforts of the AAC Foundation have been the cornerstone of the remarkable sculptures lining the streets and walkways of downtown St. George. Excitement is building for the new show that will open on March 28, 2015. This annual event heralds the unveiling of outstanding sculptures from artists around the country. It is a wonderful time to venture out and see what unique art pieces the new show will bring to our community.
The exhibit consists of 24 sculptures from artists all around the country. Some pieces are on lease and are available for purchase from the artists — and others are part of the City of St. George’s permanent collection. The sculptures are placed in different areas of historic downtown for adults and children alike to see, touch, and experience art on a whole new level. The remarkable quality of these pieces allows admirers to enjoy an interactive art experience and the sculptures have the ability to withstand hands-on curiosity like no other medium. Moreover, creating a beautiful and cultured downtown area benefits our community aesthetically, financially, and culturally. “The sole purpose of our efforts is to bring art to this community,” said Stefanie Bevans, Art Around the Corner Chairwoman. “The reward is when we see people of every age stopping to interact with the art, or enjoy it in some way. The level of sophistication and talent in our show is museum quality, and the fact that it lines our streets is a just another reason why St. George is like no other town.” Think of it as one of the greatest outdoor public art museums in the west.
The rotating annual show is a cooperative arrangement that allows the AAC to showcase a variety of work from a national pool of renowned artists. In return the organization promotes the artists’ work, which is for sale, and tries to provide greater access and exposure for the sculptors. To continue to attract this level of talent to St. George, the AAC must do their part to help artist make the 12 month loan worth their while. “The bottom line is we need to help these artists make a living and sell their pieces,” said Bevans. “We feel that this art is vital to our community and so we’re looking at more affordable and creative ways to keep the artists returning and keep the art on our streets.”
To this end, Art Around the Corner launched a new lease program this past year to work hand in hand with the straight sell of sculptures. Bevans emphasized, “First and foremost, this art is for sale. We want to keep this art in our community — so we are giving our business owners and private art lovers opportunities to enjoy this art by purchasing or leasing the sculptures.”
The newly integrated 12-month leasing program allows businesses or individuals to display a sculpture of their choosing at their own locations for a percentage of the purchase price. At the end of the contract, they have the option to put the cost of the lease towards the purchase price, return the piece, or trade it out for another sculpture. “Our show runs from March to March and the pieces coming off the pedestals in the coming months will be available for lease,” said Bevans. “If you love a piece of art and want it to stay in St. George now is a crucial time to contact us to purchase or lease the sculpture.”
Information about the leasing program and a preview of the sculptures available through the leasing program is located on the organization’s website at www.artaroundthecorner.org. If you would like to make leasing arrangements or have questions regarding sales, please contact 435-229-6612.
The website also includes a map for a self-guided tour of the 2014-15 Art Show as well as locations for pieces in the city’s permanent collection. A new feature to the website allows you to cast your vote for your favorite sculpture. In addition, there is bio information on artists and insights behind the sculptures. For younger art lovers there are “Children’s Questions” for an interactive tour, and a “Sculpture 101” introduction to the bronze sculpture process. If you have a group interested in a free guided tour, arrangements can be made with the AAC board through the website. Dates and times for Art On Main Gallery Strolls, a branch of the AAC, are also listed online.
