New 12′ Totem Added to Art Collection at Starved Rock Lodge
September 18, 2012
A new sculpture towering 12’ was recently added to the “Art in the Park” collection at Starved Rock Lodge. Earlier this year, Lodge CEO Terry Cross met sculptor Michael Jones at an art show in Arizona. After seeing the quality and style of Jones’ manufactured steel creations, Cross knew he wanted to commission a work of art just for Starved Rock Lodge. The “Art in the Park” collection had been mainly composed of woodcarvings made from dead trees, but last year, Cross added two bronze sculptures after thinking about the long-lasting quality of bronze over wood. “I know that variety of artwork we have on display has been very entertaining for our guests over the years,” said Cross, “And, when I come across something exceptional, I think it’s worth the investment to expand what is already good, so Michael created a sketch after hearing my ideas on the basic design. I couldn’t be more pleased with what he brought to us all the way from his studio Big Fork, Montana!” Click here to watch a 6-minute video on the totem sculpture and its symbolism.
Upon its arrival, Cross installed a one-ton basalt boulder as a sturdy base for the artwork. Then, Jones secured the steel to the stone. “This new totem has great spiritual and historical significance,” said Jones as he described the towering totem in last Friday’s unveiling, “Each symbol and color stands for something specific – an eagle feather for the One Great Spirit and a red ribbon for the winds of change.” Click here to see Totem Pole Story in the Times Newspaper.
Lodge guests and local spectators enjoyed and ice cream social featuring Artisan Ice Cream made at the Lodge after hearing the how Jones forged his newest masterpiece. He estimated he’s made over 3,000 sculptures in his 30-year career as a sculptor. Click here to read more on the symbolism and significance of the sculpture.
