Virginia’s River Realm and The Lancaster by the Bay Chamber of Commerce invite experienced artists to apply for participation in Watermen’s Way, a public art project.
This project is designed to honor the men and women who work the waterways and have helped shape the regional identity through decades of hard work and perseverance, reported Jan Dobrowlski of the Rappahannock Art League.
The Virginia Watermen’s Association, The Steamboat Era Museum and the Rappahannock Art League will share in the net proceeds from this project.
Oversized, fiberglass boot sculptures have been sold to various businesses throughout the River Realm. After embellishment by regional artists, the finished boots will be on display from June 2017 through August 2018, at a place designated by the business.
Watermen’s Way maps, which specify boot locations, will be made available to encourage visitors to seek out each pair of boots and “step inside” the watermen’s world for a brief moment. Photos may be shared on the Watermen’s Way Facebook page. At the end of the exhibition, any boots that have not been purchased for permanent installation will be sold at auction.
Artists are requested to submit an application to be considered for the project. After jurying, selected artists will consult with purchasers to create and produce a design pleasing to both parties. Selected artists will be required to submit a final sketch of the agreed-on design to the Watermen’s Way committee. Upon approval, artists will receive $150 toward the cost of supplies. In addition, a $150 stipend will be offered to the artist upon completion of the boots.
Applications are available at ralgallery.com/watermensway or by calling Rappahannock Art League Gallery at 436-9309.
