The Roanoke Public Libraries and the Roanoke Arts Commission are inviting public input that will be used to enhance the sculptural installation titled, “Reading Garden,” which is scheduled to be placed at the Gainsboro Branch Library this fall.
“Reading Garden” will be a work of functional art, part of the “Bench People” series by Colorado-based artist Madeline Wiener. In a nod to the library location, it will feature two figures holding open books, as well as other seating areas made of carved stacks of books.
Individuals or groups are invited to submit essays, poems, or art to be etched onto the actual components that make up the sculpture.
“Ms. Wiener uses her sculptures to foster cultural exchange through art,” says Sheila Umberger, Director of Libraries. “The figures invite people to climb on and explore or simply sit and relax with a good book.”
According to Doug Jackson, chair of the Roanoke Arts Commission, “It was important to the Commission that the artist chosen for this Percent for Art project interact with the community.” Wiener, who was selected in May to produce the sculpture, is known for her interactive pieces, which made her the ideal artist for this project.
In June, she came to Roanoke for the first of two workshops to brief citizens about “Reading Garden,” and encourage participants to share ideas. A second workshop will be held at the time of installation. Materials submitted for the sculpture will also be considered for inclusion in a book celebrating Gainsboro.
Submission forms and guidelines are available at all Roanoke Public Libraries locations, or at www.roanokeva.gov/GainsboroGarden. The deadline for input is Aug. 24. Submissions will be accepted at the front desk on the first floor of the Main Library, or may be mailed to: Roanoke Public Libraries, 706 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke, VA 24016, attn: Gainsboro “Reading Garden.”
For more information, contact Sheila Umberger, Director of Libraries, at 540-853-2475 or e-mail, [email protected].
