North American Sculpture returns to Foothills Art Center

July 20, 2010 - PRLog -- Golden, CO, July 7, 2010—Foothills Art Center proudly presents the 24th installation of the North American Sculpture exhibition. A juried exhibition featuring sculptors from around the United States and Canada, North American Sculpture includes 21 exceptional sculptures by 15 artists. The artworks differ greatly in scope, with sophisticated pieces from various mediums including carved wood, iron, steel, glass, fiber and found objects, as well as more conceptual installations of mixed media.

This year’s North American Sculpture will feature eclectic highlights, such as David Van Ness’ Golden Calf, American Idol. This large-scale sculpture, composed of mixed media, is a contemporary American interpretation of a historical Biblical verse. Other standouts include three imposing pieces by Canadian sculptor Joe Ventura. This group of larger-than-life-size figures depicts realistic human forms, posed in military costume with animal headdress garb, representing empowerment and authority. These artists, along with the works of nearly a dozen other sculptors, make uniquely compelling contributions to an exhibition of stellar contemporary sculpture.

North American Sculpture will also feature the Emerging Sculptor Showcase, which highlights a specially-selected group of five up-and-coming sculptors from around the region. Works by these young artists offer a glimpse into the styles and subject matter of the next generation of artists.

This diverse and well-crafted exhibition was juried by well-known Colorado artists Lawrence Argent and John McEnroe, and FAC Curator, Michael Chavez. Argent is head of the University of Denver’s School of Art & Art History sculpture department, and is best known for his widely-acclaimed I see what you mean sculpture, known to most as the blue bear at the Colorado Convention Center. Similarly, McEnroe has created four major public art commissions in Denver in the last three years, and was most recently featured in the Denver Art Museum’s Embrace! exhibition. FAC Curator Michael Chavez has served as Curator of Exhibitions and Education at Foothills Art Center since 2005, and is an active leader in the Colorado art community.

Selected artists for North American Sculpture are: M.Gert Barkovic, Washington D.C.; Bradley Borthwick, Denver, CO; Linda Egendorf, Lincoln, MA; Linda Graham, Denver, CO; John Grimberg, Golden, CO; Philip Mann, Denver, CO; Jenn McNamara, Cortland, NY; Bonnie Ferrill Roman, Arvada, CO; Paul Stafford, Littleton, CO; Melinda Stewart, Denver, CO; David Van Ness, Richardson, TX; Joe Ventura, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; James A. Wade Jr., Lexington, KY; and David & Leah Wicks, Morrison, CO.

Free Events
Opening Reception and Awards Presentation
Friday, July 16, 5:30–8 pm

Target Free First Mondays
Monday, July 19 and Monday, August 2
Free admission to the general public

Gallery Talk with Juror Lawrence Argent
Wednesday, July 21, 7 pm

Gallery Talk with Juror John McEnroe
Tuesday, August 3, 7 pm

SCFD Family Free Day
Saturday, August 21
11 am–2 pm, Art activities for kids

On Exhibit in Foothills II
Hidden Gems: Treasures from the Collection of Foothills Art Center
July 5–August 20 (closed weekends)
Foothills Art Center is opening its vault to reveal its collection of “Hidden Gems.” Although it is not a collecting institution, Foothills Art Center has, over the years, acquired a vast array of significant and substantial pieces of art. This diverse ensemble of unique, renowned paintings and sculptures have rarely been seen in decades, and now the items in this exhibit are all for sale. Artists include Conrad Schweiring, Red Grooms and Dave Just, among many others.

About Foothills Art Center
Foothills Art Center has served as the center for art exhibitions, education and culture for
the greater Golden community for over 40 years. Housed in two buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, FAC is known for showcasing diverse exhibitions in a unique setting. Our mission is engaging the mind and inspiring the spirit—offering the world of art through exhibition and education. Open Monday–Saturday, 10 am–5 pm, and Sunday 1–5 pm. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for seniors.

# # #

Foothills Art Center has served as the center for art exhibitions, education and culture for the greater Golden community for over 40 years. Open Mon–Sat, 10 am–5 pm, and Sunday 1–5 pm.