George Rickey Kinetic Sculpture

George Rickey Sculpture Exhibit to End in Late March

Reception to Close Rare U.S. Show

ALBANY, NY (03/14/2012)(readMedia) -- The 2011 Sculpture in the Streets exhibition featuring the late American kinetic sculptor George Rickey is nearing the end of its stay in Downtown Albany. On March 26, 2012, the sculptures, some as large as 14 feet high and 22 feet wide, will be taken down and returned to The George Rickey Foundation in East Chatham, NY. Titled "The Art of a Kinetic Sculptor," Rickey's work has been on display throughout downtown Albany since June 2011. Referred to as a pioneer in kinetic sculpture, Rickey pieces come to life with the slightest breeze, making him a unique figure in contemporary art. The current show in Albany is only the third time these sculptures have been exhibited together in North America.

"Downtown Albany has received tremendous response from both the public and the art communities from this exhibit," stated Georgette Steffens, Executive Director, Downtown Albany Business Improvement District, "A major initiative of our BID, the Sculpture in the Streets program plays an important role in connecting residents with Downtown and highlighting the city for visitors in a unique way. It is bitter sweet for us to say goodbye to this world renowned artist, but we are excited to unveil the 2012-2012 exhibit in the coming weeks."

The Rickey sculptures were incorporated into the monthly 1st Fridays Albany event as well as the Aqua Ducks tour program. In January 2012, Rickey's son Philip Rickey presented an educational lecture about the artist's journey as a sculptor at Capital Repertory Theatre. Additionally, thousands of individuals have come to Downtown Albany to see the Rickey sculptures since they were first installed in June 2011.

An informal closing reception for the George Rickey exhibit is being presented by longtime BID and Albany Center Gallery supporters Patrick, Jackie and Joann Ryan on Friday, March 23 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Albany Center Gallery in Downtown Albany. The event is free and open to the public. Walking tour maps are available for the Sculpture in the Streets exhibit at area merchants, the Downtown Albany BID office at 40 North Pearl Street, Albany and online at downtownalbany.org.

Since 1996, the Downtown Albany Business Improvement District (BID) has worked to restore, promote and maintain the character and vitality of downtown Albany and improve the quality of life and overall image of downtown for those who work in, live in and visit New York's Capital City. The BID is a private, not-for profit 501(c) (3) organization. For more information about Downtown Albany BID please visit downtownalbany.org or call (518) 465-2143.