Several sculptures will soon populate the Western New Mexico University campus, an initiative of the Art in Public Places program by the State of New Mexico.
The first sculpture will be dedicated on Friday, October 21 at 10:30 a.m. in the School of Nursing Building lobby. Titled “Alter 1”, the piece was created by Rose B. Simpson, an award-winning artists who resides in Española.
According to Simpson’s Artist Statement, the piece originated from a conversation about sacred spaces. Simpson realized that most sacred spaces are moments when people consciously connect with each other and are influenced by energy.
The original installation consisted of two equally large figures facing each other in a vacant space. The two pieces are now altered together, symbolizing the connection that people can make with each other.
“The piece is building an identity, with the metal-strap constructed head and mask, it is creating a path to see the world in countless ways,” said Simpson. “May our hearts have the wings that carry us forward to meet the world and be transformed beautifully by it.”
The Art In Public Places program is funded through the One Percent for Art legislation by the State of New Mexico’s Department of Cultural Affairs. Large-scale artwork is selected to be placed in communities to enhance existing buildings and landscapes.
The dedication is open to the public and will include refreshments.
For more information, visit http://wnmu.edu/culture.