Have you visited our office lately? We have a new art piece in our entry way. And, there’s a story to go with it.
The Hutchinson Center for the Arts recently hosted a gala fundraiser which included a live auction. Artwork created by local “celebrity artists” was auctioned off to support local arts. There were paintings and pottery…and a very special eagle sculpture.
Local business owner and SWIF Growing Home Circle member Tom Daggett was one of this year’s celebrity artists. He enlisted help from his team at Hutchinson Manufacturing, including Kerry Schmidt who did the design and managed the project and Joel Schlueter who welded and finished it. They also worked with local sculptor Al Feser to bring Tom’s idea of an eagle to life.
“What Kerry did took an incredible amount of talent,” Tom said. “And the craftsmanship–Joel and his guys did an incredible job.”
SWIF President/CEO Diana Anderson and husband John attended the gala. During the auction, John had an idea–he wanted to buy the eagle sculpture and gift it to the foundation.
A note from John explains why:
For 14 years, I’ve been learning about SWIF and all it does to help people, so when Diana told me that she was going to be the new president and CEO, I was so proud and excited. What a great opportunity she has been given. I thought then that someday we should give something back to show how much we both appreciate the great work that everyone does.
The opportunity came up quickly! When I saw the eagle, it felt like a perfect fit for SWIF because it represents so many things. The eagle was designed and created in the community and it was built by people we know. It is also a symbol of greatness…like SWIF. The people on the board, staff, and the 18 counties it serves makes this place soar above the rest. To me, that makes the eagle a special gift, and I hope everyone will think of that when they see it.
SWIF Program Specialist Greg Jodzio, who also serves on the Hutchinson Center for the Arts board, coordinated a lunch so staff could meet the team and thank John for his generous gift.
If you’re in Hutchinson, please stop in to say hello and see this special new piece.
We thank everyone who helped this eagle land here in our office!
