Clayton Adds to its World Class Public Art Collection

May 4, 2007

Clayton adds to its world class public art collection Clayton is a leader in the region in many respects, not the least of which is its world class public art collection. The collection includes works by world renowned artists Carl Milles, Howard Ben Tre, Fernando Botero and Ernest Trova.

To make the City’s public art collection one of the most significant in the region and one of its most impressive amenities, the Clayton Art Commission works with developers on selecting public art to be installed in all new major project built in Clayton. The Art Commission also partners with major entities like the St. Louis Art Museum, Washington University and the Gateway Foundation. All previous acquisitions have been loans; some long term loans.

This summer the City will be adding the first piece to be commissioned by the Clayton Art Commission, a sculpture by internationally recognized artist Alice Aycock. The Commission hopes that the Aycock is the first of many in a collection of commissioned public art.

Ms. Aycock’s 19’ aluminum, steel and thermoformed plastic sculpture will be installed in the circle in front of Clayton’s community center, The Center of Clayton. “Aycock sculptures are key components of public art and museum collections throughout the United States and Europe,” said Art Commission Chair Joan Cohen. “We are excited and proud to add a piece by Alice Aycock to the Clayton public art collection.”

The commissioning process began with a nation call for entries. Nine artists submitted qualifications of which three were selected to create site specific proposals. The submissions were reviewed by a selection panel, and comments from a cross section of community stakeholders were solicited; Ms. Aycock was awarded the contract. The Art Commission conducted a fundraising campaign to cover the $110,000 contract. Clayton residents, businesses and art lovers responded generously. Contributions included $35,000 from the City of Clayton and $10,000 for the Clayton Chamber of Commerce.

In May, work was done in the circle in front of The Center to prepare it for the installation of the piece. The Clayton Art Commission expects to celebrate the installation of the Aycock sculpture in July 2007, and is planning various other activities as part of this extraordinary event.