LIBRARIES LOVE TRASH ARTIST
Found-Object Artist Brings Projects to Sarasota County

Sarasota, FL – May 12, 2009 — Richard Hinger, an artist for 25 years, makes sculptures out of used discarded items. His ‘green’ art has been met with enthusiasm by staff and visitors at all eight Sarasota County Libraries where his work is now being showcased.

With society’s current focus on living green, his art captures the attention of people of all ages and backgrounds. ‘Brenda Bronze’, a full sized mannequin in a trash can, caused a lot of excitement at EcoFest, and will be enjoyed at the Selby Library, along with other works from 5 themed series that span his career, beginning June 1.

Richard’s newly created “Lehighton Letters”, large 4-6 piece sculptures stating R-E-A-D or B-O-O-K-S and inlaid with reused items, have been loaned to all the Sarasota County Libraries .(see Works in Public Places page on website).

Recently relocated from San Diego, CA, Richard continues to create art pieces out of trash and used items. “As a self-taught assemblagist/sculptor, I create vibrant and provocative works of art from the products of our throw-away culture” states Richard. He has always been involved in bringing art opportunities to others, and founded ESI Public Arts, a non-profit organization which offers public art projects to children and communities.

Richard’s show “Re-Used and Re-Imagined” will be highlighted at the Selby Library in downtown Sarasota on June 8th at 11:00am with an artist’s reception and Lecture/Q&A. On Friday, June 5 at 2:00 pm he will offer an “Enviro Sculpt” Workshop in which children ages 9-15 will create their own found-object sculpture. This family friendly show focuses on the importance of reusing, reducing, and recycling, and relates it to art and storytelling.

###

For more information regarding Richard’s art work or library show refer to http://www.richardjhinger.com, or call artist Richard Hinger #941-735-9993 or Marilyn Nykiforuk at the Selby Library #941-861-1133

To quote her eloquent words, “The arts are not a luxury for the monied few. They, like the democracy we live in, are created by the people, for the people. … It is the everyday person – extraordinary in their very ordinariness – that completes the artistic process; engages in the dialogue; helps to illuminate what is truly human and therefore essential.”

Keep up the great work,
Scott

The Artspace Mission
Artspace’s mission is to create, foster, and preserve affordable space for artists and arts organizations. We pursue this mission through development projects, asset management activities, consulting services, and community-building activities that serve artists and arts organizations of all disciplines, cultures, and economic circumstances. By creating this space, Artspace supports the continued professional growth of artists and enhances the cultural and economic vitality of the surrounding community.

See more at http://www.artspace.org