The Arts Council announced the unveiling of the City of Wichita's newest artistic venue, Sculpture WalkAbout Wichita. Initiated by Mayor Carl Brewer and implemented by the Arts Council, Sculpture WalkAbout Wichita showcases five works in various mediums selected from a competition opened to artists from around the region. All five art pieces are situated along the first and second blocks of North Mosley in Old Town. The ceremony marking the opening is scheduled for Friday, May 29 at 6:00 p.m. on Mosley Street, just across from Hotel at Old Town. Mayor Brewer, Dora Timmerman, chair of the Arts Council Sculpture WalkAbout Committee, and other dignitaries will speak at this location. Simultaneous ribbon cuttings will take place at the other four sculpture sites along Mosley Street. "The Sculpture WalkAbout is a project that introduces the work of area artists to the public, provides a diverse and exciting physical environment in the community, and encourages an interest in and appreciation of the visual arts," Ms. Timmerman said. The sculptures now being installed will remain for a year, to be replaced by new sculptures in 2010 and in each succeeding year. The art is chosen from a juried competition. The sculptures are available for purchase, but must remain until new work is installed next spring. "The concept of outdoor sculpture is not new to the city," Ms. Timmerman remarked, "However, the competition, with replacement by new work annually, is. This gives area artists an opportunity to display their work to the public. In addition to the Mosley Street locations, we plan on selecting new sites in other parts of the city." Sponsors of Sculpture WalkAbout Wichita include the Arts Council, Downtown Development Corporation, Fidelity Bank, Go Wichita Convention and Visitors Bureau, TCK-Trust & Financial Advisors, and Joan Beren. By ncbeat.com