Shane M. Pitzer
Identity Awareness – Family, 2017
STAINLESS STEEL
ARTIST STATEMENT:
This is the third in Mr. Pitzer’s awareness series. Identity Awareness – Family, created for the 2017 Burning Man Festival, sought to focus on the family aspect of Burning Man. It was then installed in the Playa Art Park in Reno and it also went back to Burning Man in 2019. This metal heart is held up by four family members signifying strength and working together to support the whole unit. One side is held up by the father and daughter while the other side is held by mother and son. The piece transitions to Downtown Victorian Square, as families have enjoyed the area for its events and the old fountain, which is where this art now sits for the Sparks Art Walk. The heart has steel tubing with places to climb and hang from to pose for pictures or simply explore.
ARTIST PROFILE:
This piece is made possible through the help of Artech, a 501(3) arts nonprofit that is passionate about creativity and innovation.
At the heart of Artech’s mission is their goal is to create a sustainable art community in Northern Nevada by fostering collaborative spaces, events, and education.
They engage the community by creating pop-up temporary art parks as gathering spaces with regular free programming. They also produce an annual art festival that brings national, regional and local visual artists to downtown Reno, giving the community an opportunity to buy art, enjoy free performances and participate in a full weekend of art activities.
And they provide educational opportunities for the community through classes and art exhibitions in their studio space. If people are exposed to art and the creative process, it becomes an integral part of their lives.
These experiences will be the catalyst to a lifetime appreciation of and a respect for their own creativity and the creativity of others.
