Nellie"s Needles

Saturday, September 18, 2010

"Prairie Performance" Revisited

In early August we stopped at the New Sherman Hospital in Elgin, Illinois on our drive from Milwaukee, Wisconsin back to our cottage in Michigan.


 We had lunch in the hospital's  dining room ...


... in front of "Prairie Performance".

When Lee had gotten up to clear his tray, a woman at the next table said, "Let me tell you about those flowers.  They're what is planted outside around the hospital."  I replied with a big smile, "Thank you, I know.  I'm the artist."  She got all excited about my being there and told me she sits as close as she can for her lunch everyday.  Then she pointed out the Elvis she had found .... one that I had forgotten about.  Another diner joined in saying much the same things.  I pointed out a couple of more Elvis images to them.

Above is the view out the window that is perpendicular to the wall where "Prairie Performance" is installed.  If you look closely, its reflection can be seen in the glass.

I took a walk outside with my iPhone camera.






















I also took photos of the interior garden, "The Healing Courtyard."  Quite a few Cone Flowers had been planted there.
Since then, friends from Hawaii also stopped in Elgin to view my art while on this trip to the states.  Here's Kawiki on his cell phone asking Lee for guidance to find an Elvis image.

8 comments:

Vicki W said...

I can't tell...is it protected behind glass? I'd be terrified that someone would spill something on it.

Heather said...

How wonderful to be able to lunch beside your masterpiece. I bet those ladies were excited at being able to talk with you. I love the prairie planting in the gardens outside the hospital - very fitting and what a splendid building it is.

arlee said...

what a treat to see it again--and to know that it's fully appreciated! My "piece" hangs above my monitor, a reminder of sun and compassion, even on the gloomiest day :)

Nellie's Needles said...

Vicki, there is no physical barrier over this piece. It's only protection is multiple coats of Krylon's UV-Resistant Acrylic coating. It's non-yellowing and moisture resistant, as well as a protectorant against dirt and dust. Otherwise, it's just a trust in the viewer's common sense and respect for art.

Ali Honey said...

Wonderful Art in an amazing building.You should be very proud of your work.

Kay said...

This must have been such fun. Also I know you enjoyed seeing it again in the perfect light and season.

Barbara Strobel Lardon said...

Wow! It still looks stunning and I am not seeing a spot of ketchup!
I hope mine are being enjoyed by the mothers and their families.

The grounds look wonderful all green and planted. It is an amazing place.

FredaB said...

Nellie

I think you need to set up a guest book for people to sign who come to the hospital just to see your beautiful piece.

Hugs

FredaB