Artist: Gary Lee Price
Title: Nature's Friends Set
Medium: Bronze
Dimensions: 48"h x 28"w
"Children seem to make friends easily, not only with each other but with Mother Nature and her creations. The ability to befriend and have respect for all living things is not only a gift that our youth come into this life with, it is a talent we all need to nurture. Being close to and making friends with our animal and bird friends is a vital link to our understanding and is a paradigm for the way the world works. We are all dependent upon each other if we are to live in peace and harmony. This sculpture is made of two parts:
Words of Wisdom: Throughout time children have been enthralled with the magic of flight and have always enjoyed the companionship of birds. Many myths and legends include mankind’s ability to take flight and, perhaps, having birds as friends reminds us of the possibility to spread our wings and soar to new heights. Our young friend is depicted with her sketch pad and pencil close at hand; a student of life . She watches in awe as her friends gather at her offering and she partakes of their wisdom. The owl shares his knowledge while the hummingbirds represent jewels and lights from different orbs. The butterflies symbolize the change and rebirth we experience as we learn and grow.
Frog Serenade: Children have enjoyed playing with frogs for centuries. Frogs have been symbolic to many cultures and represent everything from perseverance to prosperity. This young boy is depicted indulging his fantasies with a myriad of different exotic frogs and listens with pleasure to his friends’ melodies. If he listens and observes carefully, they will impart their wisdom for a long and prosperous life." Gary Lee Price
"Nature's Friend Set" is a bronze sculpture depicting two children engaged in a playful exchange with water. On the left, a young girl stands with a slightly leaning posture, a smile on her face, holding a flat birdbath. A small bird sits on the edge of the tray, which collects water spilling from its surface. On the right, a boy mirrors the stance of the girl, holding his tray at a downward angle towards the girl's tray, allowing water to flow from his tray to hers. Like the girl, the boy exhibits a joyful expression as he watches the water transfer. The figures stand on separate bases, which are textured and uneven, representing natural ground. Overall, the sculpture captures a moment of innocence and joy that projects the whimsical interactions of childhood.