Origami Sculpture Exhibit 

August 3, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. - The City of Battle Creek advances to the next steps of the 2021 Origami Sculpture Project with the selection of eight pieces from seven artists.  

The response to the June Call to Artists was incredible for the first year. Seven local artists submitted projects. Two artists submitted multiples. The original scope of the Call to Artists included the procurement of seven unique sculptures. 

“We received a nice variety of submissions; a number of local artists (and their families) are collaborating on their pieces. We have some made of wood and acrylic, some of scrap metal, some painted, and some left in their raw state.” shared John Hart, Development Director – City of Battle Creek Small Business Development Office. 

A selection committee made up of local creatives assisted the Small Business Development staff in selectin the top seven pieces. 

The committee is: Clovis Bordeaux (Battle Creek Community Foundation), Kyra Wallace (Urban League), Annie Kelley (Calhoun County Visitors Bureau), Linda Holderbaum (Art Center of Battle Creek), Pete Williams (Kellogg Community College), Heidi Lagrow (Calhoun Area Career Center), and Sullay Garcia (Voces Youth Advocate.) . 

It was a fun process with lots of discussion around the content, materials, and construction of the pieces. Unexpectedly, the Visitors Bureau, being very excited about a particular sculpture, requested to fund it as well. 

The seven artists and the names of their sculptures are as follows: Elisha Hodge (Earth & Sky), Andrew Freemire (Calculated Rise), Brian Rowden and Vicki VanAmeyden (First Fold), Kyle Burnett (Jaywalker & The Mighty Mighty Spoon), Garald (Gary) Barton IV and Wayne Edmonds (Kami no Kazoku), Mary Dey (Out of the Ashes), and Jaziel Pugh (Selective Reduction). 

Kyle Burnett expressed his want for linking his sculptures to the community on a personal level. “The ducks at Irving Park inspired my piece, as they are always a part of people’s day when driving past the park, whether it be to admire them or to stop to let them jaywalk. They are part of this great city, so this piece is for them!”

“What a great event, we are thrilled to be a part of helping Battle Creek bloom!” - Elisha Hodge, owner of Plumeria Botanical Boutique and sculpture artist. 

Annie Kelley from the Calhoun County Visitors Bureau excitedly shared, “When you see these sculptures, remember they’ve been created by local artists. The amount of talent here in Battle Creek is incredible.”

They now have until October 15, 2021, to deliver their pieces Downtown for installation. The pieces will be on display for one year on the sidewalk, parks, and plazas. 

A celebration of their arrival will take place shortly after installation. The public will be asked to vote for their favorite. The Small Business Development Office for the City of Battle Creek will then purchase the winning piece to place on permanent display. 

 

For more information on how to apply visit smallbusinessbattlecreek.com or contact Jacquie McLean at smallbusinessinfo@battlecreekmi.gov.