Dedication of "Escape" Sculpture
Award-winning sculptor R. Farrington Sharp, an artist from Dexter, Michigan, spoke at the unveiling of his statue, "Escape," the newest addition to the Ferris State Renaissance program on Friday, Oct. 17, 1997. Sharp's piece, a figurative work of four life-sized human figures, was placed on a hill south of Carlisle Hall and behind Rankin Center.The statue has become part of the Michigan Art Walk, a brick pathway that connects various works of art on campus and has the potential to extend into the Big Rapids community. "Escape" was created from a substance called ferro-cement by the award-winning artist. Ferro-cement is "steel mesh reinforcement impregnated with portland cement and plastic polymer liquid," according to Sharp. "The material has the advantage of withstanding extremes of heat/cold, freeze/thaw without damage, yet is stronger than traditional concrete and lighter in weight." When asked what "Escape" represents, Sharp replied that it will mean different things to different people. "An important aspect of art is that people can draw their own meaning from it. 'Escape' could be as simple as people assisting each other; or they could be seeking sanctuary for some reason. Perhaps it's an escape from ignorance or injustice," he added.
The unveiling ceremony was funded by the Pioneer Group, sponsor of the
1997-98 Ferris Renaissance activities. |