As part of a scheduled renovation by the Town of Waynesville to the parking lot leased from The Forga family, a mini-park dedicated to Robert and Viola Forga will be placed in a centralized location in the lot. The piece will be placed in the park. 

The theme of the piece is “The Plott Hound.” The Public Art Commission viewed this as an opportunity to not only pay homage to the Plott Hound and its roots in Hazelwood, but to have the first piece of public art there as well.  

Artists from North Carolina and Tennessee were asked to submit proposals along with examples of their past works. Metal specialists and sculptors with a variety of backgrounds and experiences applied for the $20,000 commission.  

“Although we were hoping for a larger number of applicants, we were happy with the caliber of the proposals,” said George Kenney, chairman of the Public Art Commission. “It is important that all areas of Waynesville showcase public art that reflects local culture and is accessible to all,” he added.   

The three finalists will make presentations to a Citizen Advisory Panel on April 29. The public is invited to attend these presentations. The panel will consist of 30-35 selected citizens and will represent a cross-section of the community. After reviewing the final proposals, the panel will have an opportunity to fill out a comment sheet, as well as discuss their thoughts with the Public Art Commission. The commission will request approval to move forward by the Board of Aldermen to award the project after an official decision is made at the May public art commission meeting. 

The finalists for the project are Jim Collins of Highlands, Todd Frahm of Asheville and Robert Orr of Waynesville. The $20,000 commission will be raised from private individuals, area businesses, and grants from the North Carolina Community Foundation.  

The mission of the Waynesville Public Art Commission is to engage the community and enrich public spaces through original art that celebrates Waynesville’s unique historic, cultural, natural and human resources.

For more information, contact Kenney at 828.246.0124.