Every May, Chelsea decorates its streets with 15 original sculptures. Called the Sculpture Trail, this free exhibit invites residents and visitors to explore Main Street and the surrounding area to see and appreciate works of art.
According to Terris Ahrens, executive director of the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce (CACC), Chelsea has been celebrating the work of local artists for more than a decade, with “more than 100 sculptures rotating throughout Chelsea.” In addition to this extensive catalog and this season’s 15 new sculptures, “more than 13 are permanently placed throughout the city.”
In addition to the success and reputation River Gallery has achieved, Patti has been able to share her love of art with the community through the Sculpture Trail. Although River Gallery is no longer located in Chelsea, Patti’s artistic legacy continues to grace the streets of Chelsea as she turns her attention to a new art venture in Ann Arbor (Stephenson Ceramics).
Today, “The Sculpture Walk is hosted by CACC and has strong support from the City of Chelsea,” explains Terris. To participate in the Sculpture Walk, artists can submit their sculptures to ChelseaMich.com any time of year. The deadline for each season is approximately the beginning of April (for the upcoming rotation, the deadline is April 2025, July 4).
The works are then submitted to a jury, which selects the sculpture of the year. Once selected, each sculptor receives a $1,000 stipend “to be used to lease [the city] his work for a year”; these scholarships are funded by more than a dozen local donors who play a role in supporting and sustaining the March of the Sculptures. vital role.
In addition, all sculptures are available for purchase. Typically there are “one or two sales a year,” Trice said, “and if the piece doesn’t sell, it goes back to the sculptor. If a sale occurs, 80 percent of the proceeds will go directly to the artist and the remainder will be used.” to support long-term development of the Sculpture Trail.
Since its inception, the Sculpture Trail has breathed life into the charming and tranquil atmosphere of Chelsea, transforming the city into an exhibition that invites exploration and admiration. Terris emphasizes how rewarding it is to bring this sense of art into the community: “It is very important to see the changes in the landscape of our city when we do a seasonal rotation every May.”
Patty agreed with Treese, emphasizing, “That’s the beauty of small urban communities. It’s possible to do things like this and get the support you need.” Ultimately, this not only provides opportunities for local artists, but also brings a vibrant sense of community to this ever-changing landscape. Thanks to the efforts of CACC and local artists, quaint corners of Chelsea that were once empty are now endlessly decorated with a revolving door of stunning artwork.
Post time: Sep-04-2024
