Kirsten Engstrom’s sculpture seems to welcome visitors at the entrance to the Riverwalk Community Labyrinth.
Visitors to the Riverwalk Community Labyrinth now are welcomed by an official greeter.
The newest addition to the labyrinth is a sculpture donated by Mayville artist Kirsten Engstrom. The sculpture is of a smiling woman, head gazing skyward with arms raised, who seems to be welcoming visitors to the labyrinth.
The labyrinth was created last year by people with cognitive disabilities and their support staff at The Resource Center. The labyrinth is located on Jones & Gifford Avenue in Jamestown, across the street from TRC’s Michael J. Raymond Center.
The labyrinth was unveiled last year with the official dedication of a centerpiece sculpture created by artists with disabilities at TRC and Aspire. At the time Johnny Tooley, special projects coordinator for TRC’s Day Habilitation Programs, invited area artists to bring their sculptures to the labyrinth garden, which in addition to the maze-like labyrinth pathway includes birdfeeders and ornamental vegetation.
That call for sculptures was heard by Ms. Engstrom, who said she was moved to contribute her sculpture out of the professional respect she holds for Kristen Briggs, TRC’s art teacher.
Ms. Engstrom’s whimsical sculpture is a welcome addition to the labyrinth. When asked to suggest a name for the piece, Tooley offered “The Lady of the Labyrinth,” while Ms. Engstrom opted for “Esperanza.”
Whatever you call her, visitors likely will enjoy the sculpture. And Ms. Engstrom said that unlike some pieces of art, her sculpture is meant to be touched – the hands move, reducing the likelihood they could accidentally be broken off by someone touching the sculpture too forcefully.
“I like to bring hope, joy and a giggle to this world,” said Ms. Engstrom, “and I want my art to do the same.”
Staff and service recipients from The Resource Center maintain the labyrinth, mowing the grass and tending to the flowers and plants. Those who maintain the labyrinth have enjoyed the nice weather experienced so far this summer as they work to add to the project. Last year’s wet weather prevented the labyrinth’s caretakers from doing more work in the grounds.
“I’m really excited about it, here in year two,” said Tooley. “The ground is really dry over there compared to last year, so it is easier to maintain.”
He said he has big plans for the project, including some fund-raisers, as work is slated to continue right through the fall.
“I would love to add benches, picnic tables and hopefully more sculptures,” said Tooley. “That would just make my day.” He added that he wants to see more decorative items such as “birdhouses, birdfeeders and mini flower gardens.”
The labyrinth was created in conjunction with the city of Jamestown’s planned extension of the Riverwalk. Financial support from TRC Foundation and the New York State Council on the Arts Decentralization Regrant Program provided the funding to establish the labyrinth and create the sculpture made by the TRC and Aspire artists.
Tooley invites others to become involved in what is meant to be a community project.
“I would love to see garden clubs or any group get involved,” said Tooley. “I would like the schools to get involved as well. This is for the community, and the more interest we generate, the better. It’s for everyone to use.”
If you, your workplace or group would like to get involved, contact Tooley at 661-4864.
For more information on the Labyrinth click here.