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GEMS Project Sculptures on Display in Area Towns

By Janet Anderson

September 24, 2004

Baca County artist Shalah Perkins won the People’s Choice award during the recent reception held on August 20, 2004 when several new sculptures were unveiled as part of the Southeast Colorado Enterprise Development (SECED) GEMS Project. The "SECED GEMS EXHIBIT" involves outdoor sculptures on Main Street in the communities of Lamar, Springfield, Ordway, Eads and Las Animas, which are the "county seats". Eight of twelve new sculptures were unveiled, including Perkins’ award winning piece, "Kindred Spirits", that is on display at the rest area in Eads, along U.S. Highway 287.

Perkins also entered another sculpture called, "The Night Watch", which was recently installed in front of the Baca County Courthouse. Another of Shalah’s figurines entitled "First Glimpse of Heaven" will be located at the Crowley County Courthouse.

Lamar artist Justin Young unveiled a 27-inch sculpture of two elk entitled "High Ridge Challenge" that is presently on display at the Prowers County Courthouse and Jesse Martinez entered a wooden sculpture entitiled "Native Pride" which can be admired at the SECED Office at 112 West Elm in Lamar. Plans to install several pieces offered by Otero County artist Brenda Nilsen-Daniher are being made.

 

Southeast Colorado Enterprise Development, Inc. recently established the SECED Emerald of the Plains Art Program to promote the business of art in Southeast Colorado. The SECED GEMS Exhibit will provide participating artists a series of public locations at which to display their art. Residents will get the benefit of having the artwork on public display for the next year, and the artworks are also for sale.

Any pieces that sell will earn SECED a 25 percent commission, and the proceeds will help fund the project in future years. This year’s artwork will remain on display through July 2005. Plans for next year’s public display are already underway. For further information and entry forms, contact SECED at 112 West Elm in Lamar, Colorado 81052 or phone (719) 336-3850.