For immediate release May 25, 2016.
New Outdoor Sculpture at Douglas County Libraries in Highlands Ranch Invites Interaction.
The 2016-2017 public art installment at Douglas County Libraries (DCL) in Highlands Ranch, James H. LaRue branch, is on display and already inspiring curiosity and play. Touching Sound is an interactive sculpture by artist Maureen Hearty, created with sculpted aluminum pipes that are tuned based on their diameter and length.
“I attempt to engage the audience with the art beyond the passive experience, taking every opportunity for interaction with the art,” says Hearty. “Playing with sound is one of my favorite ways to invite interaction. The pieces come alive when people touch them and create sounds.”
Hearty is a self-described sculptress, horticulturalist and community organizer who uses art and horticulture as a tool for community action. Using leftovers from human experiences and consumption, she says her art represents our natural surroundings.
DCL partners annually with Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association (HRCAA) and Art Encounters, Douglas County’s public art program, to showcase sculptures in various media and styles at its Highlands Ranch location. Displaying such highly visible art has the potential to transform lives and build community through engagement. DCL in Highlands Ranch has partnered with HRCAA in its public art program since 2011.
Sculptures for display are selected by Art Encounters’ Public Art Advisory Committee from artist applications submitted for the program. The committee, under the direction of the Douglas County Cultural Council, selects the art and determines which pieces are displayed in the various public venues throughout Douglas County. All sculptures, including Touching Sound, are available for purchase.
Touching Sound is on display at the Highlands Ranch James H. LaRue library (9292 Ridgeline Blvd.) through May 2017. Past installments at the library include Baby Bear by Ryszard Wagoner (2014-2015) and Molly, Dieter and Susie (bronze Basset Hounds) by Pat Kennedy (2015-2016), which is now featured at Eastridge Recreation Center in Highlands Ranch.