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Description:
“Adornment” is a tribute to Sara Smith, a long-time Tempe art
advocate and jewelry maker. She was a self-employed jewelry designer
for 15 years and owned and operated Gold Design by Sara. She also
served on the Board of Arizona Designer Craftsmen and Fine Arts
Center of Tempe and managed the art center’s gift shop. The
commemoration project consists of three life size sculptures that
resemble Smith’s creative jewelry. The sculptures are constructed of
patinated plate-steel and are strewn over the Kiwanis Park site
almost as if they are lying in a jewelry box or out on a dresser.
Each piece is securely anchored into concrete. The design also
includes a chain-like, concrete walkway and stone inlay connecting
to a pendant-shaped ramada with three stone seats.
Funding:
The project was funded through city of Tempe Capital Improvement
Project Percent for Art funds.
Artist biography:
Michael Anderson was born in California and grew up in Texas and
Nebraska. After moving to Arizona in 1964, he studied fine art at
Phoenix College and Arizona State University, before becoming a
professional sculptor in the early 70’s. Anderson has created work
in different media, but is most recognized for his gracefully
sweeping artworks in steel. His works are in public and private
collections across the United States and in foreign countries such
as Canada, Mexico, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, Australia and
Zaire. Michael also has completed more than 30 public commissions in
Arizona, including Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport,
Superstition Springs Mall, Memorial Hospital and the Scottsdale
Center for the Arts.
Artist
statement:
Having worked with several cities on different art projects in
recent years, I find particular pleasure in projects that are people
friendly, and involve people participation, i.e., art that is not
only visually stimulating but also practical. |
