Description of work: Local architect Stephen Fry, President of Concept Design Group conceived the original idea for this project. Having admired the talent and work of Sarah Grant & Stick's for years, Steve contacted them to propose a joint collaboration. Concept Design Group and Sticks intend to erect a larger than life dining table and chairs atop the Blue Bridge. The table and chairs will be embellished with artistic imagery that depicts the bountiful cultural offerings of Grand Rapids. Artwork will be on the tabletop, legs and underside of the pieces so that pedestrians and occupants from the surrounding high rises can view the work. Concept Design Group will assist with the structural integrity and installation safety of this project to ensure that the piece is securely affixed to the bridge without damage to the bridge.

Work statement: The actual Table will be approximately 28 feet by 30 feet by 20 feet tall and will sit on top of the main trestles of the bridge. The work will be constructed of MDO plywood on a steel and structural wood framework, then hand painted images are added.

Local construction personnel will be used to safely assemble and dismantle the pieces. It will be lifted into place using a 200 foot long crane. Lighting may be added to add interest and draw attention to the piece during evening hours. We are also looking for a permanent home for the piece when ArtPrize is over. Using over 6,000 sq. ft. of plywood and weighting over 30,000 pounds, this piece should draw plenty of attention and conversation for the first year of Artprize.

Artist bio: Sarah Grant is the owner and founder of Sticks. Sticks is a collaborative art studio that produces handcrafted furniture with painted imagery and life affirming messages. Sarah was born in Rochester, NY, and was raised in Ames, IA. She graduated from the University of Iowa earning a BFA in Drawing and Intaglio Printmaking, an MFA in Intaglio Printmaking and Painting. In 2009, Sarah was named an honorary alumni of Iowa State University. Sarah was an adjunct professor at Iowa State University in Ames, IA. She concurrently was a teacher for the Des Moines Public School’s Talented and Gifted Program; the Iowa Arts Council Artist in Residence Program; and the Des Moines Art Center. Sarah’s abstract paintings are currently represented at Olson-Larsen Gallery in Des Moines.

Artist statement: Sarah and Sticks are committed to creating artwork that is timeless in its designs and meaningful in its overall message. Our designs are visually impactful with the vibrant use of color and imagery. Our designs communicate to the public with life affirming messages. As a collaborative art studio, our work offers a synergistic creativity that draws upon the creative minds and inner beauty of many talented individuals coming together to create works of art that have universal appeal. We offer the finest level of craftsmanship and the highest measures of creativity. Our team has the ability to craft structural pieces of all shapes and sizes. Our work is crafted and designed with the specific needs of the space and the emphasis of the project in mind. We are committed to our craft and always welcome opportunities that allow us to design artwork that will make a lasting impression.

Art form: 3-D

Medium: Painting and handcrafted furniture