On Saturday, Oct. 9, an intrepid group of Orcas Island Historical Museum friends and supporters braved the elements to attend the dedication of the magnificent heron sculpture that was installed on the museum grounds on June 28. Several board members pressed fresh cider on the spot, to fit in with the museum’s end of season celebration which traditionally takes place at this time. Artist sculptor Todd Spalti spoke of his experiences in getting the huge cedar log from southwest Washington to Orcas Island, and the creative processes he used to convert the log into the beautiful sculpture we now all enjoy. He invited each viewer of “Tribute” to come up with their own interpretation of its meaning. He also expressed an interest in having island artists offer their own designs for the removable art design piece in the heron’s beak. If any local artist would like to make a proposal, let us know at the museum.

This beautiful piece of art has represented a wonderful coming together of volunteer community involvement. The museum’s thanks goes out to Al Minnis and Tex Beemer who built the base forms, Rocky Arnt of Sea Island Sand and gravel who donated the concrete, Dave Hall with his boomtruck for delivering and placing the sculpture on its base, and most recently, Michael Budnick of Northwest Concepts, who spent two days cutting and laying bricks to form an attractive walkway setting. Board members John Willis, James Lobdell and Ron Montgomery did the shovel work during the project. Thanks also to Dona Wuthnow and her San Juan County Parks Board for helping get through the permit process. But, most of all, thanks goes to artist Todd for creating this magnificent work, and his sponsor who had the vision of promoting public art for all to enjoy.

Bill Buchan

OIHM Board President