While the grand opening of the Sculpture Fields isn’t until April, visitors can get a sneak peek Nov. 21 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. of the monumental sculptures that dot the 33-acre park on Chattanooga’s Southside. The entrance to the park is on Polk Street. The rain date is Nov. 22.
This free event features Kites: Sculpture in the Sky with some kites so large they must be anchored to the ground. The sneak peek kicks off the weekend openings for the Sculpture Fields.
"The first of its kind in the Southeast, the Sculpture Fields mixes magnificent monumental pieces of art with nature on an extensive greenfield with 75 sculptures upon the park’s completion, where visitors can amble along the rambling walkways. The collection, created by the hands of local, national and international artists, will also feature a visitor’s center, an interactive children’s art program and eventually an outdoor amphitheater to host concerts, theatrical performances and other special events," officials said.
“The Sculpture Fields used to be a brownfield,” said John Henry, world-known sculptor and founder of the Sculpture Fields. “It has been beautifully restored. The park will become, not only a cultural destination, but also an economic driver for our community.
“Sculpture Fields will attract thousands of art-lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, students and families,” Henry said. “Those visitors will fill the surrounding restaurants, hotels and local businesses.”
On Nov. 21, the public will get its first view of the park and the 23 large-scale sculptures already installed. To celebrate this milestone, Sculpture Fields is partnering with the Chattanooga Kite Club.
The sky will be filled with colorful stunt kites and Rokaku battle kites. Some kites will be massive, spanning 20 feet. Kids will be able to race parachute-like kites (bols) in what fliers call Running with the Bols. Visitors also will be able to make their own kites for free.
Organizers for the event said they are hoping for ideal kite-flying weather. The best wind is a stable 10-12 mph.
“Everything will fly at that wind, small or big,” said Martin Blais, of the Chattanooga Kite Club. “The best place to fly in Chattanooga is the Sculpture Fields.”
“Kites originated in China where someone might have seen a leaf blowing down the path and thought to attach a string,” said Chuck Jones, president of the Chattanooga Kite Club. “Kites have developed into a true art form and are now flown all over the world.”
For more information about the Sculpture Fields, call 423-266-7288, email clifford@sculpturefields.org or go to www.sculpturefields.org.