Autumn, like every season, has its own unique sounds, smell and light. A simple walk in the woods can be a lavation for one’s soul.
Not far from where I call home is the very charming historical town of Hillsborough, North Carolina. As it was founded in 1754, it is a very important thread of America’s coat of history. I like to go there and just stroll the streets and take a turn on the town’s greenway called, Riverwalk. The path meanders through a wooded area hugging the Eno River located in the center of the town. It is a great place to exhale and just enjoy the beauty of nature.
Today’s stroll was particularly interesting, as I came upon a most unusual sight. It was a folly of sorts. Totally constructed of saplings. It was nestled in the woods right off the footpath. It beckoned one to explore, and thus I did.
Simply amazing. It was composed of a central barrel with 5 surrounding towers. Arched windows, doorways and an oculus were all a part of the catalog of details included in this sculpture. Nothing nailed. Nothing man-made. All natural. My imagination began to reel.
Research ensued.
Patrick Dougherty is the internationally acclaimed sculptor behind this marvelous work of art. His stickwork sculptures have appeared throughout the USA and abroad. His genius results in a variety of creations from freestanding to the incorporation of trees and buildings. Although his atelier maybe nature’s own, his work can also be viewed in a variety of museums. This particular installation is #267--he is quite prolific, indeed!
It is often the assistance of local artists and like-minded folks who create his vision. This particular sculpture was the work of over 190 dedicated individuals. Taking only 3 weeks to construct, the folly is over 26 feet in circumference and 21 feet tall. Its sustainably harvested palette of Southern sugar maple, sweetgum, and elm saplings will be enjoyed for approximately 2 years before Mother Nature’s reclamation.
As every work of art deserves a title, this is no different. On the day of completion and celebratory ribbon cutting, Mr. Dougherty was asked his name for this particular sculpture. Mr. Dougherty is a Tarheel by birth. His ears have long rung with the sound of Southern colloquialisms. During the three weeks of construction, a reoccurring comment seemed to prevail by those passersby, “Well, isn’t that a sight to behold.”
Mr. Dougherty replied with the most aptly ordained title one could render: “A Sight to Behold”.
I am delighted I had the opportunity to do just that.
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