Castlegar SculptureWalk 2011

It's sculpture time again

It's almost that time. Time for a summer long exhibition (and year round display) of sculptures in every size, shape and medium.

Castlegar SculptureWalk 2011 is ready to kick off, bigger and better than the inaugural year. Here's your chance to view some amazing pieces of art, get downtown and get a little exercise all at once.

Best of all, you are able and encouraged to vote on your personal favourite and the city will purchase it in the fall for permanent display. SculptureWalk 2011 launches June 3, and the organizers want you to be a big part of it.

"Last year nearly 1,600 people voted on their favourite piece," said SculptureWalk Society president Pat Field. "This year we are looking to increase that number considerably, so I'm encouraging everyone to take the tour, see some incredible work and cast their vote."

The number of sculptures is up heading into the second year - from 17 to 25.

These are world class artists displaying their work right here in the downtown of our city. Local and regional sculptors are well represented, and many of last year's participants are back with another creation.

It's easy to vote, and the range of emotions contained in the works and what you'll feel is vast.

Some pieces are sinuous, sensual and abstract, others incredibly life-like and full of detail. Many are humorous, whimsical, magical and fantastical. Others make you ponder, consider and think. Some are straightforward, others are perplexing.

What they all share is the intensity and vision of the sculptor, and the need to be interpreted and seen by all of us. They are labours of love certainly; more importantly they add to the city's cultural cachet.

SculptureWalk is responsible for increased tourism which is good for businesses and fosters growing international recognition for the city as a place where public art is recognized and encouraged.

SculptureWalk 2011 runs from June until September, although many of the works will be displayed year round. The program has grown substantially and will continue to do so. All the sculptures are available to be leased or purchased - nearly a quarter of last year's exhibited works were sold, beautifying the place we call home.

So whether considering buying or simply admiring, you need to get out, bring your summer visitors and explore the installations dotting the downtown.

Lace up those sneakers or hiking boots, bring the kids, plan to vote for your favourite at the handy ballot boxes and be prepared to be amazed and awed, appreciative and proud.

/Submitted by SculptureWalk Society