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This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.
In June, buffalo began appearing on the streets and in public places in Davis County and neighboring communities. Throughout the summer, they have made special “round-up” appearances in parades and at community celebrations.
No, they’re not real buffalo. Instead, they’re life-size fiberglass sculptures created to look like the real animals. It’s called the Utah Buffalo Roundup, and it’s an outdoor public arts project intended to promote community pride and spirit throughout the county, region and state. Other similar projects have successfully taken place in cities nationwide. This particular version was developed for Davis County by Rick Mayfield Associates Inc., an economic development consulting firm. The Davis County Council of Governments, which is a non-profit group organized to promote Davis County, is sponsoring the event.
More than 150 pieces of art will be created by at least 150 area artists. The sculptures, though they resemble buffalo, have been left without paint, allowing artists endless possibilities for design. Artists can volunteer to work on a piece by submitting proposals to the Davis County Council’s Art Selection Committee. Those chosen for their work will be paid a stipend to transform the fiberglass sculptures into public displays.
Zions Bank is sponsoring three, including one that will be dressed like a cowboy, complete with hat, jeans and boots.
Rick Mayfield told me that success of the project depends on the financial support of area businesses and organizations that will sponsor a buffalo. Sponsorships are $3,000, which covers the up-front costs of the buffalo and provides a stipend of $900 for the artist.
The Buffalo Roundup will run through March of next year at which time an auction of the completed artworks will be held. Proceeds from the project will then be distributed to support the arts, to enhance Utah’s treasured buffalo herd on Antelope Island and to other area charities. The Utah Buffalo Roundup is a creative way to benefit so many people.
You can find out more about this exciting project by visiting utahbuffaloroundup.com.
For Zions Bank, I’m Fred Ball. I’m speaking on business.
