The Fairfax Public Library foundation’s project, "Art in the Pages," has local artists submitting designs to create works of art from blank sculptures. This project, featuring an open book, is reminiscent of the Pandamania and Party Animals that appeared in Washington D.C. a few years ago.
At Dranesville Elementary School, local artist Anne Nagy is creating one of these books in the school lobby. "Its a great opportunity for kids to see a work in progress and to involve them," said Nagy.
The title for the book, "The Book of Love," was chosen because, "I thought it would be a message of hope and love. The public would be excited about it and the kids would like it too," said Nagy.
Nagy who teaches art at Dranesville Elementary feels art is important for children because, "Art teaches creative problem solving, encourages different kinds of thinking and communicating thoughts and ideas in a variety of ways. Art also is great for self-esteem and gives children a chance to use different materials to express themselves in a positive way."
The Book of Love is sponsored by the Institute of Public Art in Reston and will appear in the Reston Library, at the end of June.
These sculptures will be on display during the summer of 2008 and afterwards will be either donated to a library or auctioned off, with the proceeds benefiting the Fairfax Public Libraries.