HICKORY, NC (November 16, 2016)…The City of Hickory Public Art Commission (PAC) announced the installation of a new acquisition, “Love Makes the World Go ‘Round,” by artist Ray Giddens. The imaginative work cheerfully greets visitors at Sally Fox Park in downtown Hickory.
Public Art Commission Chair, Todd Hefner, said, “The new sculpture is designed to be interactive with nature and should be enjoyed by both young and young at heart. It is definitely worth the visit to see this new piece of art and how it enhances the park.”
Sally Fox Park has become a focus of the commission because it is perfectly situated next to the future City Walk and nearby Hickory Museum of Art/SALT Block. It is an anchor for the City’s Art Walk, and the commission is working on a plan to enhance this jewel of the city.
The Art Walk, which begins at Union Square and meanders through downtown all the way to Lenoir-Rhyne University, has been another top priority for the commission. A colorful brochure outlining the route and highlighting key works of art is available at the Julian G. Whitener Municipal Building and the Patrick Beaver Memorial Library.
The sculpture was discovered by PAC members at “Tucker’s Gallery” in Downtown Lenoir, which is managed by the Caldwell Arts Council.
Giddens, who resides in Simpsonville, South Carolina, had a long career in ornamental horticulture and landscape design. After retiring more than 10 years ago, he went back to school to study art and found that he had a deep interest in sculpting. He believes that his work as a horticulturalist impacts his sculpture designs and vision. His work may be viewed at www.raygiddenssculpture.com.
The City of Hickory Public Art Commission is one of the City’s 14 advisory groups. Members are appointed by the Hickory City Council to provide a forum for integrating public art into the public space, to help create a visual sense of the community, and to provide leadership in implementing a public art program for Hickory. The PAC is composed of 12 members – one from each ward, five at large members, and one Youth Council member. Citizens interested in serving on an advisory group will find an application at www.hickorync.gov/content/boards-and-commission.