For over 35 years, art enthusiasts been mesmerized by Patrick Dougherty's whimsical sculptural creations in botanical gardens, museum grounds, universities, and other settings around the world. Dougherty has honed his craft at bending and weaving natural materials into nearly 300 monumental interactive sculptures for an unforgettable experience.
Dougherty is now in Vail, transforming the lower bench of Ford Park into a setting for his latest creation, "Stickwork." His vision is being executed through a team of community volunteers helping to create an installation evoking Vail’s pristine surroundings and playful sensibility.
The tactile sculptures envelope viewers as they wander with wonder through the installation. Nestled between the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater and the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, it is now highly accessible for all to enjoy.
On Monday, June 18, Patrick Dougherty will host artist presentation and book signing at Donovan Pavilion in West Vail, located at 1600 South Frontage Road. Doors Open at 5:30 p.m. At 6 p.m. Dougherty will regale fans with a slide presentation as he discusses his career, which started with the U.S. Army's Arts and Crafts program (bet you didn't know that existed), and going on to span 35 years. The event will celebrate his installation in Vail’s Ford Park, with his book signing is to follow.
The presentation is free and books will be available for purchase. Space is limited and the event will follow a first come, first served format.
And then on Friday, June 22, Stickwork will have its opening reception from 4 to 6 p.m. in Ford Park. Ut will be a community celebration and ribbon cutting at the installation site.
A Photography Exhibition will accompany Stickwork through July 9 at the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens Education Center in Ford Park, displaying an extensive photography collection on view highlighting the artist’s 35 year career.
