Hear from three public sculpture artists and join in a roundtable discussion during the Public Sculpture Symposium: Concept, Material, and Placemaking. The event features presentations by J. Aaron Alderman, Jenn Peek, and Theda Sandiford—each artist has work included in Sculpture Walk Springfield’s 2022-2023 collection. The virtual Zoom webinar takes place November 10 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Registration is required through the following link: missouristate.edu/webinars.htm.

During the symposium, moderated by Associate Professor Deidre Argyle, topics of discussion will explore the general role public art plays in placemaking, public art’s role in the Springfield community, and Sculpture Walk Springfield. Deidre describes the significance of the event’s topics:

The importance of art to a community is often diminished, when in fact public art plays a critical role to our sense of place and economic vitality. It is accessible to everyone in the community it is exhibited. I hope this symposium generates curiosity about the art works in Springfield and the artists behind the works. Perhaps this could open a discussion for future public works and garner more support for public art either through engagement and/or financially.

Read on below to learn more about each visiting sculptor:

J. Aaron Alderman

J. Aaron Alderman’s practice involves the use of pure line to capture what his artist’s statement describes as “tender emotional expression of the human form.” He is a native of Brevard, North Carolina, where he attended Brevard College and studied under sculptor Tim Murray and coppersmith J. T. Copper. Currently, his sculpture, “When Lighting Strikes”, is on view in downtown Springfield as part of Sculpture Walk Springfield.

Jenn Peek

Jenn Peek creates multidisciplinary work centered on themes of connection, community, and transformation. Originally from rural Missouri, Jenn earned her BFA in sculpture from University of North Florida and is currently an MFA candidate at University of Oklahoma. Jenn’s sculpture, “Connection”, is currently on view as part of Sculpture Walk Springfield.

Theda Sandiford

Theda Sandiford is a self-taught fiber and installation artist using found objects and donated materials to weave together a “social fabric” through work exploring contemporary issues and personal narratives. Based in Jersey City, New Jersey, Theda pairs people, sound, and art making as part of a community-centered practice to create what her artist’s statement describes as “a safe space to explore themes such as equity and inclusion, sustainability, and personal wellbeing.” Theda’s piece, “Dorchester Road Rage”, is currently on view as part of Sculpture Walk Springfield.

The event is open to the public, and those interested in sculpture, public art, or curious to learn more about the sculpture in Springfield, Missouri are encouraged to attend. Register in advance through the following link: missouristate.edu/webinars.htm

Taylor Ladd is a graduate assistant for the Department of Art + Design. She is working towards her master’s degree in writing at Missouri State University with professional interests in writing about art, culture, and food.