After more than two years in the making, a summertime-themed sculpture has made its appearance near the International Falls Public Library.
The locally designed and constructed sculpture honors Cathy Johnson, a member of the Northland Art Society, who died suddenly in September 2010.
One of Johnson’s passions was getting young people involved with art, according to her family and the sculpture’s organizers. A group of committee members in 2013 felt a contest asking local students in grades 4-12 to draw their favorite thing of summer would be appropriate in Johnson’s memory.
About 50 entries were submitted by students with a first place tie going to Kenzie Wenberg, who was in sixth grade at the time, and Jessica Kulig, who was in fourth grade. The two winning entries were combined into a sculpture that was created by local artist, Eric “Erickson” Kulig.
A dedication of the sculpture is planned for October, according to NAS member Denise Kulig. Watch The Journal’s Community Calendar and Borderland Briefs section for an exact date.
The cost of creating the sculpture was covered by money raised during a 2013 fundraiser in Johnson’s honor. Family members wanted the money generated by the fundraiser to be transformed in a way for people to enjoy art.
