We are proud and excited to announce that three of our Celebration of Fine Art artists have just been elected as members of the prestigious National Sculpture Society. Curt Mattson, Ken Newman and Vala Ola join this exclusive society of highly acclaimed sculptors from across the country. You will be able to meet them and watch them create new pieces and enjoy their works of art at the 2009 Celebration of Fine Art.

Curt Mattson at work on a sculpture at the Celebration of Fine Art

Ken Newman works on a wood carving

Vala Ola putting finishing touches on a sculpture at the Celebration of Fine Art

The National Sculpture Society is the oldest organization of professional sculptors in the United States. Leading US sculptors and architects founded the NSS in the 19th century to “spread the knowledge of good sculpture. Today, NSS continues to encourage excellence in sculpture throughout the United States. NSS publications, Sculpture Review and NSS News Bulletin, keep members and friends of sculpture abreast of the latest developments. The society runs many programs dedicated to encouraging good sculpture, and to educate young artists in the medium. Visit www.nationalsculpture.org for more information.

Works by Ken Newman and Vala Ola are currently on display at Brookgreen Gardens in South Carolina as part of the 75th Annual Awards Exhibition through August 24. Over 200 artists applied to this juried exhibition and 56 members were selected to participate in this exhibition which started in New York City. To learn more about Brookgreen Gardens, visit www.brookgreen.org.

We hope you’ll join us in congratulating these incredible artists on this great accomplishment. You can send your greetings by replying to this post. And, of course, we invite you to stop by and see what they are working on during our 2009 event!