Every year in late summer, Benson Sculpture Garden in Loveland, Colorado, is transformed when thousands of sculptures join its permanent collection for the Loveland High Plains Arts Council’s Sculpture in the Park Show and Sale. From August 11 through 13, the event, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year, is celebrating its 39th year. 

Sculpture in the Park Show and Sale features more than 2,000 works of art amidst the permanent collection in Benson Sculpture Garden. Photo credit: Richard Haro

 

Visitors will have a chance to meet artists as they browse the wide variety of sculpture on display. Photo credit: Richard Haro

 

Although in the beginning, Sculpture in the Park saw mostly bronze sculptures from local artists created in a traditional style, the event has expanded to include a diverse range of styles, mediums and artists from around the country and world. Selected by a blind jury, the 162 artists in the 2023  show, will together present more than 2,000 pieces of sculpture in bronze, glass, wood, ceramic, stone, mixed media and more. Styles will range from representational to abstract, and in size from miniature to monumental. 

“I think we’re going to see some exceptional work this year,” says Donna Visocky, executive director of the Loveland High Plains Arts Council. “We have several well-known sculptors participating in the show for the first time. I’m excited to see this diverse display of new work among the beauty of the Benson Sculpture Garden permanent collection this August.”

Charlotte Szynskie, Flyer, bronze, 24 x 24 12”

 

The Benson Sculpture Garden encompasses 10-acres and features 182 art pieces, including a life-sized bronze mountain lion, a banana on roller skates and children pulling on a larger-than-life wishbone.

“There are all different kinds of art all the way around the park, so it’s really cool to see,” Visocky says. “Every year we add more pieces to the park.”

The event kicks off with a Patron Party on August 11 from 3 to 8 p.m. in the garden, giving serious collectors a preview of works in the show. A silent auction, ongoing throughout the weekend, concludes on August 13. 

Moana Ponder, Melody, bronze, 20 x 11 x 10½”

 

Moana Ponder, Vincent, bronze, 16 x 9 x 8"

 

One of this year’s juried artists is Denver sculptor Charlotte Szynskie. “The beauty, strength, and fluidity of the human body in motion captivates me,” Szynskie says. “My sculptures show this frozen moment in time. I love being able to share my intrigue with the human figure. I get an idea in my mind and I dwell on it until it comes out of my hands in clay.” 

Artist Moana Ponder is inspired by a deep feeling of appreciation and it shows in her powerful busts pictured here. “I am touched by the beauty and harmony of nature in sky, sea and land,” she says. “The loveliness of the human form, particularly when in motion, pleases my eye. And the capacity of humanity for spirituality and generosity makes me want to contribute art that draws from the things I appreciate to give joy to others.”

Yenny Cocq, The Two of Us, bronze  56"

 

For Yenny Cocq it all comes down to love and family. “As a sculptor, I am interested in exploring the complexities and nuances of human relationships, particularly within the context of couples and families,” Cocq says. “My work often focuses on the dynamic between individuals within these close relationships, and the ways in which they non-verbally interact.” In her bronze sculptures she strives to capture the unique qualities and characteristics of each individual while conveying the deep connections between them.  Just like relationships, “My work is not static,” Cocq says. With the addition or removal of family members and beloved pets, the dynamic changes.”

Yenny Cocq, Family of 5, bronze, 42"

 

Laura Lee Stay Bradshaw, Scout, bronze, 26 x 6"

 

Laura Lee Stay Bradshaw’s passion for capturing the human form in a timeless medium has led to the creation of many unique pieces that reflect the beauty and intricacy of human experience. “Working with live models, I carefully manipulate clay into sculpted figures,” says Bradshaw. “Each pinch of clay brings the form closer to the shape and pose I envision, [but] I’m not afraid to take artistic liberties, altering proportions or exaggerating gestures to bring the sculpture to life. Often, I choose to incorporate universal themes, such as celebration, human dignity or the journey through time to imbue each sculpture with a deeper meaning and significance. Through my sculptures, I aim to evoke a sense of wonder and inspiration, inviting viewers to connect with their humanity and that of others. —

39th Annual Sculpture in the Park Show & Sale
When: August 11-13, 2023
Where: Benson Sculpture Garden, 2908 Aspen Drive, Loveland, CO 80538
Information: (970) 663-2940, www.sculptureinthepark.org

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