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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2024
Nicky Tobin
Walk of Art Coordinator for Art Rapids
(231)631-4039
A Uniting of Two Sculptures
Elk Rapids, MI - May 13, 2024 - Art Rapids, driven by a clear mission to enrich and promote the arts and arts education, announces the artistic union of two new sculptures in the Walk of Art Sculpture Park in Elk Rapids.
Industrial welder and fabricator, Tom Moran, proclaims he isn’t an artist, but his newly installed sculptures in the Walk of Art Sculpture Park tell a different story.
In 2023, with input from artists Glen McCune and Kimberly Bazemore, Moran welded together salvaged pieces of a decommissioned ship to create a 7 foot tall, hard-nosed, chin-up, male bust titled, “Determination.”
When asked what the sculpture means to him, Moran explained, “We can hold our head high no matter what we are made of and in spite of the ugliness we harbor inside.” Ironically, the “ugliness” inside “Determination” is actually a beautiful compilation of gigantic protruding bolts, as seen from the back of the sculpture.
Later in 2023, and this time working alone, Moran challenged himself to create a softer, more contemplative image using the same medium - salvaged metal objects welded together.
Moran recently spoke about this second piece, titled “Reflection.” “It wasn’t anything deep and intellectual,” he said. “I chose a female shape and went for a thoughtful appearance. It was not easy making hard material look soft and full of expression. I may have caught a little of that depending on the angle one looks at her, however, she has a lot of hard spots.”
Despite, or perhaps because of, her hard spots, “Reflection” evokes deep, intellectual thoughts. Her gaze is tilted down, and her perceived emotion tends to change from different angles. Viewers can even stand behind her and look out through her open eyes.
Recently, “Reflection” was situated in close proximity to “Determination,” in the Walk of Art Sculpture Park in Elk Rapids, MI. Visitors to the park along the shore of East Grand Traverse Bay have lots to say and think about the two of them.
“She has the same expression I use when I’m contemplating difficult things,” says Becky Lancaster, President of Art Rapids.
“She’s his new lady-friend,” proclaims writer Graydon DeCamp, “his feminine companion.”
Five year-old Josephina simply observes, “Her eyes are open. His eyes are closed.”
“He’s being stubborn, and she’s like, ‘Come on,’” muses a park visitor.
Even though Moran didn’t intend to make a statement on feminine and masculine constructs, or relationship norms, his sculptures tend to bring up feelings, thoughts, and conversations on these topics. That’s just what art does.
Tom Moran, artist? Visit his sculptures in the Walk of Art, nestled in the Elk Rapids Day Park on South Bayshore Drive, and decide for yourself.
(Photo credit: Nicky Tobin)
For further information on Art Rapids and the Walk of Art Sculpture Park, please contact:
Nicky Tobin
Walk of Art Coordinator for Art Rapids
(231)631-4039
