MESSAGE FROM
Mayor Daniel D. McArthur
Honorary Chair
Art Around the Corner 2011
Welcome to St. George and to Art Around the Corner 2011.
For the past seven years, St. George has been blessed by this outdoor exhibit of sculptures by some of the finest artists in our state and nation.
This all-volunteer effort is a wonderful example of what we call the Dixie Spirit. As a city, we are proud to join forces with artists, sponsors, and the Art Around the Corner Foundation to bring these sculptures to the historic heart of St. George. They add beauty to our community and uplift, educate, and inspire our citizens, and in particular, our coming generation.
We are also pleased this year to honor our volunteer firefighters with the permanent placement of a sculpture by artist Dan Hill titled “Little Squirt.” This piece depicts a young boy with a garden hose and fireman hat imitating one of his heroes. Since 1936, 217 individuals have worked as volunteer firefighters in St. George. Although St. George now employs 31 full-time professionals, volunteers still outnumber them by more than two-to-one. These individuals are truly heroes to all of us.
It is fitting that this statue should be placed right in the middle of an area where children play every day. It fosters gratitude, encourages positive role models, and inspires our young people to dream and to join in the Dixie Spirit as we work for a stronger community.
Art brings the best out in all of us. I’m a realistic person. I’m not a Picasso. But the art and the atmosphere we have created downtown help bring people and businesses there. The art also brings pride in our community, gives families something to do, and adds to our quality of life.
I hope you will take time to walk our historic downtown and enjoy the sculptures. As Picasso once said, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” From time to time, we can all use a little dusting off!