Walking tour set for Broadway sculptures

For those who have often walked, biked or driven past the sculptures that adorn Broadway and wondered about the stories behind the art, the Downtown Sculpture Walk on Saturday might answer a few questions.

The walking tour will be led by Liz Montgomery, gallery manager for the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri, and Michael Baird, art instructor at Southeast Missouri State University. Montgomery said it's something the Public Art Committee has wanted to do since the outdoor sculpture exhibit opened in April. The event will be informal and open to the public.

"We're hoping by being laid-back ... it will be more approachable for anybody, whether they're a casual observer or someone more involved [in the arts]," said Montgomery.

She said questions from participants about the sculptures or the artists will be accepted throughout the tour. Montgomery has researched each piece to learn more about its history and has also spoken to the artists about their styles and inspirations. Baird, an artist with degrees in fine art and sculpting, will share his knowledge of the processes used to create the sculptures on display.

A brochure with a map of the outdoor sculpture exhibit also will be handed out during the tour.

The tour comes around the middle of the exhibit's time in Cape Girardeau. It was scheduled in time to start preparing for next year's exhibit.

"We created a people's choice award so anyone can go on our website and say what they think about the sculptures and which one was their favorite," said Montgomery. "So that gives us an idea of what people like for the next exhibit."

Those who wish to vote in the people's choice award may visit capearts.org/capesculpture. The page also features links to each artist's website.

The Downtown Sculpture Walk will begin at 11 a.m. near the sculpture "Immigrants," by Mike Baur, on Broadway between Lorimier and Spanish streets.

srinehart@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

Broadway and Spanish Street, Cape Girardeau, Mo.