Welcome Magazine Behind the Scenes Wendy Poischbeg

Welcome Magazine Behind the Scenes Wendy Poischbeg

In my 25 -year career of managing public art installations, the privilege of seeing the creative process behind each piece has been as interesting and enjoyable as the finished work. So many of the sculptures downtown Everett bring back a fond, behind-the-scenes memory. 

I remember the time Pam Hom showed up to her artist interview with her maquette for Fibonacci, the water feature at Evergreen Area Arboretum. A maquette is a mini example of the artist’s concept for the project. Pam created hers using her mother’s hand hammered Cantonese wok — an act she said her mother never forgave! The rounded bottom of the heirloom cookware perfectly simulated the metal dome she envisioned necessary to direct the flow of water in a spiral pattern.  Pam did get the commission and she bought her mom a new wok.

Another unforgettable behind-the-scenes moment was witnessing artist, Kevin Pettelle finish the clay head of Simple Song, the commemorative bronze sculpture of dancer and teacher Mike Jordan, located in front of the Everett Performing Arts Center. As the sculpture was nearing completion and getting ready for the molding process, there was something not quite right in the eyes and cheekbones that needed some finessing.  So, Kevin asked a small group of Mike’s family and friends to come together with additional pictures that he would use to add the finishing touches.

As he molded and sculpted in front of this small audience, tears soon began to flow. In front of their eyes, Kevin had perfectly captured the delight and joy Mike found through music and dance. You can see it for yourself the next time you’re on a walking tour of Everett’s fantastic public art collection.