In a delightful addition to the cultural landscape, the Lewis and Clark Library proudly unveils its latest treasure—a captivating art installation that transforms the space above the books into a mesmerizing canvas of colors and shapes. Crafted by artist John Waltner, this mobile, aptly titled “‘Oro y Plata’ — Colors of Montana,” has quickly become a focal point for library visitors, sparking conversations and infusing a sense of vibrancy into the public space.
A Year in the Making:
The genesis of this artistic marvel traces back to John Waltner’s visit to Helena around a year ago. Entranced by the newly created library space, Waltner envisioned his art seamlessly adorning the void above the books. Following discussions with library staff, he embarked on a creative journey back home in Kansas, dedicating a year to meticulously crafting the mobile.
Inspiration Drawn from Montana’s Essence:
“Oro y Plata,” translating to “Gold and Silver” in Spanish, draws inspiration from Montana’s State Seal. However, Waltner emphasizes that his primary goal was to create a piece that transcends symbolism, focusing instead on offering viewers a visually engaging experience as they explore the library for their next literary adventure.
Waltner shares, “All I’m about is trying to get color up in the air. These things don’t symbolize anything else. I can’t, they’re not representational of anything other than a way to get interesting color and color combinations and configurations of abstract pieces in relation to one another up in the air so that people can look at them. And usually, I mean, they’re kind of interesting.”
The Impact of Public Art:
Placed strategically to enhance the public space of the library, Waltner’s creation aligns with his belief in the positive influence of public art. He emphasizes the healthiness of exposure to such art, asserting that even if individuals merely pass by without consciously taking notice, the sensory impact is undeniable and beneficial.
“I think that exposure, exposure to public art is just plain healthy for us. I mean, whether we stop and take notice of it or not, if we go past it and see it, it’s having some kind of an impact on our sensory system and is good,” says Waltner.
A Collaborative Canvas:
Waltner’s “Oro y Plata” now shares its artistic space with another impressive hanging piece by local artist Richard Swanson. This collaborative canvas within the library demonstrates a commitment to supporting public art and fostering an environment where creativity flourishes.
FAQs:
Q: What inspired John Waltner’s art installation, “‘Oro y Plata’ — Colors of Montana”? A: The piece drew inspiration from Montana’s State Seal, particularly the phrase “Oro y Plata,” meaning “Gold and Silver” in Spanish. However, the primary aim was to create an aesthetically pleasing and engaging artwork.
Q: How long did it take for the art installation to be completed? A: John Waltner dedicated approximately a year to crafting the mobile, from the conceptualization stage to its installation in October.
Q: What is the significance of public art, according to Waltner? A: Waltner believes that exposure to public art is beneficial for individuals, influencing their sensory systems positively, even if they simply pass by without consciously acknowledging it.
Conclusion:
Lewis and Clark Library’s new art installation not only adds a splash of color and creativity but also serves as a testament to the power of public art in enriching our collective experiences. As visitors look up and discover the intricate beauty of “‘Oro y Plata’ — Colors of Montana,” they are invited into a world where artistic expression and literary exploration converge, creating a truly immersive and inspiring environment within the library’s walls.