What an honor it was to paint a piano this year for Pianos in the Parks! Yesterday was a day full of musical fun and celebration in Carkeek Park with my piano. The entire experience has been such a joy, but to see it out in the open with the public interacting with it and enjoying it was just so fulfilling. I have never done much public art, but have always found satisfaction in doing art that that is tangible, and that brings us closer to the life that is around us; art that helps us to experience and understand the life we are living and that of the natural world. To be out in the open, among the mountains and the water and trees, and see my artwork paired with music– it was one of the most satisfying projects I have done to date.
My concept for the piano was simple: a celebration of the sounds of Puget Sound. It was my hope that the person sitting down to play would be encouraged through the artwork to first tune in to the surrounding sounds, and then think about what it means to be a part of the sound space that fills the Puget Sound area.
Please enjoy the following photos of my Pianos in the Parks journey, from beginning to end. This gallery includes photos documenting the concept and painting processes, snapshots from the opening reception at 12 Avenue Arts, and of course photos from the Pianos in the Parks celebration at Carkeek park on July 15th, 2017.
Donna Ward
What a wonderful experience and how delightful it was to share the day in the park with you. Your piano is absolutely marvelous and so perfect for that park on the sound. Thank you for sharing your artistry with all of us.
Donna
racheljesprague@gmail.com
Thank you so much for coming to see my piano, and for your kind words! It’s always a pleasure to see you.
Rachel