RYE, NY — The second annual "Rye'sAbove" public art project is in the chrysalis and ready to soar, The Rotary Club of Rye and The Rye Arts Center have announced.
Originally inspired by a similar program in Colorado, "Rye'sAbove" brings together local artists, residents and the business community to raise funds for local educational programs and create a grand-scale conversation piece throughout the community.
Once again this year, artists will transform blank, aluminum alloy butterfly sculptures (three different sizes) into original works of art.
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"We are ecstatic to bring this program to Rye again this year," Rye Rotary VP Michele Thomas said. "Last year's event was a huge success and we are looking forward to continuing the program as a fundraiser that will again support the Rye Rotary's and The Rye Arts Center's decades' long history of underwriting art and general educational programs," she added.
Artists submitted proposals for butterfly designs and winners were chosen by a special panel from The Rye Arts Center. A total number of 36 butterflies have been fabricated and they range in size from small (which are the size of a dinner plate) to large at 48" x 30". Artists received their butterflies this week and have started transforming them into beautiful works of art.
Several of the medium and large butterflies will be on display at The Rye Village Green while the smaller sculptures will be on display at businesses along Purchase St. and the surrounding area. Major corporate sponsors are invited to "host a butterfly" at their place of business during the summer. The Rye'sAbove program will have an auction this fall where the butterflies will be available for bidding at the Wainwright House overlooking the Long Island Sound.
Proceeds from the "Rye'sAbove" butterfly project will go to both The Rye Rotary and the Rye Arts Center and will be used for each organization's scholarship and educational programs.
"Rye'sAbove" is an exciting program that gives local and national artists the opportunity to showcase their work for public display in a very unique way. It also brings artistic expression to our community with these beautiful creations," states Adam Levi, Executive Director of The Rye Arts Center.
More information about the Rye'sAbove program can be found here. The program was made possible in part through the support of ArtsWestchester and the New York State Council on the Arts.
Sponsorship opportunities are available to underwrite this event. They range from exclusive presenting sponsor at $10,000 to $250, and each offers various levels of exposure based on the level. More information about corporate or personal support can be found through email.
The Rye Rotary is a member of Rotary International, a non-profit organization that brings together a global network of volunteer leaders who dedicate their time and talent to tackle the world's most pressing humanitarian challenges. Rotary connects 1.2 million members from more than 200 countries and geographical areas. Their work impacts lives at both the local and international levels. For membership information about the Rye Rotary, please click here.
The Rye Arts Center is a community-based, not-for-profit organization whose mission is to inspire interest and maximum participation in the arts in Westchester and the surrounding region. The Rye Arts Center is committed to offering programs that are characterized by artistic tradition, educational value, and a spirit of innovation. Additional information about The Rye Arts Center and its programs can be found on their website.
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