George Tobolowsky Sculpture

Abilene, Texas -- If you've noticed something different while driving down North 1st Street heading into downtown, you are not alone.

The stretch of grass separating the street from the railroad has been dotted with a number of sculptures, at least one of which is new to the Abilene area.

The work entitled "Obsolescence" by the acclaimed sculptor George Tobolowsky, is an eye-catching piece formed mainly out of "found" materials.

Tobolowsky is a Dallas native who earned degrees in business and law from SMU in the 1970s but found his true pleasure while minoring in sculpture. He is a well-known member of such esteemed organizations as the Meadows School of the Arts at SMU and the Library of Congress, but he also will be part of an important event taking place for the Abilene arts community this fall.

Sept. 17 and 18, the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council will be holding its 30th Outdoor Sculpture exhibition. The first-ever exhibition was in April 1981 as part of the city's centennial celebration and it has become a major part of the Abilene arts calendar since then.

James Surls, a world renowned modern sculptor and original participant in the 1981 exhibition, will curate and participate in the show, along with such artists as Charmaine Locke, Tai Pomora, Laura Scandrett, Sherry Owens, Tara Conley and, of course, Tobolowsky himself.

Many of the sculptures featured in past exhibitions can still be seen around town (such as local 'celebrity' Dino Bob), while others have been purchased by private and public parties. It has become a major draw not only for Texas sculptors but also art critics, students and fans alike.

Lynn Barnett of the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council said the event has been used as a way of "bringing to Abilene the best contemporary sculpture in Texas today." She said approximately 35 sculptors who have participated in the event in the past will be in town that weekend to help celebrate.

They also have been invited to exhibit some of their smaller indoor works through September and October at the Center for Contemporary Arts in downtown. Barnett said the 30th anniversary celebration and the subsequent showing at the Center will include pieces by some of "the very best in Texas."

For more on the event, contact the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council at 325-677-1161.