Renowned Sculptor Steve Bickley Installs Captivating Site-Specific Work at Susan Runyan Maier Sculpture Garden

The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences is thrilled to announce the installation of a remarkable site-specific sculpture by acclaimed artist Steve Bickley, a work commissioned by the Collectors Club, an esteemed group of art enthusiasts that have contributed funds over many years to purchase artwork for the Juliet Art Museum’s permanent collection.

Bickley’s awe-inspiring artwork marks a significant addition to the Susan Runyan Maier Sculpture Garden, enriching the cultural landscape of our community. The installation process for this ambitious project is currently underway, with Bickley personally overseeing every detail to ensure an impeccable final presentation.

Bickley's work is revered for its ability to merge artistic brilliance with the surrounding environment, creating a harmonious connection between nature and the man-made. His sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and introspection, inviting viewers to engage with their surroundings in new and unexpected ways. This site-specific sculpture promises to be no exception, as it takes inspiration from the unique characteristics of the Susan Runyan Maier Sculpture Garden and draws on the extremes found in flora and fauna.

“The Susan Runyan Maier Sculpture Garden is a haven for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike and provides an idyllic setting for Bickley's latest creation,” said Elizabeth Simmons, the Clay Center’s Curator of Art and Engagement. “Bickley's sculpture, a 4-panel installation on the Clay Center’s Lee Street exterior, transcends traditional boundaries, blurring the lines between art and nature. We are confident this installation will inspire meaningful conversations among guests and passers-by."

"We are honored to showcase Steve Bickley's extraordinary talent here at the Clay Center," said Al Najjar, President and CEO of the Clay Center. " We are deeply grateful for the Collectors Club’s extraordinary contribution that made this commission possible.”

An official unveiling takes place on Thursday, July 20, 2023, from 7-9 pm, allowing art enthusiasts, patrons, and the public to experience the unveiling of this remarkable artwork firsthand. The event will feature remarks from Steve Bickley himself, as well as key representatives from the Clay Center.