Recognizing the journey and its continued growth, Michigan Legacy Art Park (MLAP) will celebrate twenty years at their Legacy Gala August 21. What began as one man’s vision to create a sculpture park telling the story of Michigan is today a community and cultural asset drawing over 10,000 visitors annually.
“I’m excited to bring everyone together who has helped the park grow over the last 20 years – from David Barr and the founding board, to the artists, volunteers and patrons who use and love the park. It’s going to be a great party that will raise significant funds toward our Art Access for All campaign goals” says MLAP Executive Director Renee Hintz.
Internationally acclaimed artist David Barr saw a dream realized when the Art Park opened Sept. 10, 1995. He had long desired to create a, “Michigan Art Park,” and appealed to contemporary artists to bring Michigan’s history to fresh and vivid life. Today, MLAP has 45 sculptures and 30 poetry stones along its nearly 2 mile hiking trail, with more acquisitions planned. The newest permanent sculpture in the park is “Communications Vine,” by Eric Troffkin, which was completed in late July after a three step installation process.
The 2015 Legacy Gala will be held at Crystal Mountain, Friday August 21 at 6:30 pm. Featuring music by pianist David Chown, a locally-sourced dinner, and a silent and live auction, the gala is the park’s signature fundraising event. Proceeds from the evening will be applied to MLAP’s Art Access for All capital campaign, which recently surpassed the halfway point of $500,000. Campaign funds have thus far been used to build and improve numerous areas in the park including a rebuilt amphitheater, an extended outdoor classroom at the park’s Mo and Linda White Discovery Grove and an accessible trail.
To purchase tickets to attend the event and browse the auction catalog, click here.
