Sculpture In The Streets arrives in downtown Lansing in a festival atmosphere at 5:30pm on Friday evening, May 31, 2002. At the Sculpture Premiere, all 15 shrouded sculptures will be grouped on the block of 100 North Washington Square for a special under-the-stars unveiling ceremony, giving the public its first glimpse of the whimsical bronzes.
The Sculpture Premiere features entertainment by The Geriatric 6 + 1, food provided by the Gnome Sweet Shoppe and Keystone Bakery, and drink provided by Michigan Brewing Company. The celebration culminates in the grand unveiling of the sculptures at 6:45 p.m.
Just a few steps away, inside the historic Comerica Bank lobby, exhibit sponsors and guests are honored at the elegant Opening Gala. The glittering affair will feature live entertainment by The String Quartet of the Greater Lansing Symphony Orchestra, and an incredible array of hors d’ oeuvres offered by Teresa Barcy and Professional Party Planners—all in the beautiful, historic atmosphere of one of Lansing’s landmark buildings.
Tickets for the Sculpture Premiere are available at the downtown Lansing BEANER’S® Gourmet Coffee locations and The Mole Hole. Tickets will also be available at the gate.
Sculpture In The Streets features the work of renowned artist, J. Seward Johnson Jr., the public art show is designed as a walking tour along Washington Avenue in downtown Lansing. The fifteen life-size bronze sculptures will be on display June 1, 2002 through mid-August, 2002. Each sculpture represents everyday people in everyday life and will be placed in a setting that enhances its realism and subtly blends the figures into the landscape of the city streets.
As a tool for revitalization, the exhibit serves as a catalyst for image enhancement, economic growth and increased tourism. Besides attracting hundreds of visitors to Lansing throughout the summer, the exhibit will raise funds needed to expand the program next year and present a series of concerts and activities in conjunction with the sculptures this summer. The goal is $75,000 with any proceeds to be used for downtown revitalization and beautification.
Downtown Lansing, Inc., in cooperation with the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, the City of Lansing, the Economic Development Corporation, the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Lansing Art Gallery and the Principal Shopping District is partnering to bring the community this unique experience—Sculpture in the Streets.
In addition to helping bring the public art exhibition, Downtown Lansing, Inc. will launch two new summer venues that organizers say will grow each season—the Sculpture Premiere and an Opening Gala.
Printed Volume 1 Issue 8
