NYSARC Classes Stick With Unique Art Project
CANTON - Imagination and creativity are vital to making an exceptional sculpture. A pinch of artistry and a dash of inspiration also are used. Though you won't find those items listed in any cookbook, about 15 people used the ingredients generously to create some unique art here.
Two St. Lawrence NYSARC art classes meticulously used 22 rolls of Scotch tape to shape two life-size people performing a dance move. The group submitted their sculpture in the Scotch tape "Off the Roll" contest, with the winning entry gaining a $5,000 prize. The contest ends Feb. 28.
The sculpture titled "Dance - Transcending" is described as "the dancer with a physical disability uses a wheelchair and supports the other dancer's pose. The image reflects a vision of modern dance that embraces movement without limitations."
The idea to enter the contest was broached about three weeks ago by volunteer coordinator Susan Freego. The art groups she works with had constructed a life-size model of a person using clear packing tape before she spotted information for the contest. The group then spent several classes building the sculpture, which has lights inside the tires of the wheelchair.
"The best time for them was wrapping me in tape," Ms. Freego said.
The prize money will go toward the group's arts program. St. Lawrence NYSARC is a nonprofit group working for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.
"This is a strong message for people with disabilities," said Canton resident Steven Sauter, who helped tape the tires onto the wheelchair. "We're doing things that people didn't think we could do. It was a lot of fun to do."
The group bought out the Scotch tape supply from Walmart stores in Potsdam and Massena for the contest.
Ms. Freego and Michelle Quinell, director of community relations, graciously volunteered to be wrapped up in forming the structure for the sculpture. Both had a few nicks and bumps after the experience, but it was well worth it.
"We wanted to raise awareness that people with disabilities have the capabilities of doing great things," Ms. Quinell said.
Finalists will be determined through online public voting and the winner will be judged by several artists, including Washington D.C. tape artist Mark Jenkins.
People can vote for the St. Lawrence NYSARC's sculpture online.
On the Net
Off the Roll: www.offtherollcontest.com/main/GalleryDetail.aspx?contestEntryId=81
