A collection of artists and investors gathered March 14 in the Fayetteville Town Center to auction off the painted pig sculptures seen around Northwest Arkansas to the public. Among this crowd was a group of Har-Ber students. The auctioneer asked for all the artists who dedicated their time to this piggy project to stand and be praised. The quiet group of teen artists representing HBHS, along with many professionals, rose to their feet, and to the occasion, to be flooded in applause at their achievement.
The Ozark Guidance Center approached Dawn Graham, one of the art teachers, about offering the pig sculpture to some select students to be painted and displayed in front of their building for all to see.
“As a teacher, sometimes we go with what is offered to us, even if at the time, we can’t tell what it means for us as a teacher, for the class, or for our school,” said Mrs. Graham. “I have realized since, what an honor it has been to have been offered this opportunity.”
Though the process of transforming a plain white sculpture to the elaborate brain textured masterpiece was stressful on the entire group, it also brought about many good times.
“Through the pig project, I got to know a few other people that I wouldn’t have talked to, so I really enjoyed getting to know everyone,” said junior Maria Taylor.
Being the youngest in the group of prestigious artists was not just a college application builder for these artists, but a tremendous honor.
“It meant a lot to not only me, but all of us. The fact that they chose us, being so young, showed us they really believed in our work,” said senior Megan McGarrah. “It was definitely a huge honor.”
Junior Abby Marrin recalls many trials and tribulations throughout the project including paint choices and personality clashes, but regrets nothing.
“Of course it had it’s ups and downs,” says Marrin, “but in the long run, I’m happy about the whole project.”
Their countless hours, creative energy, and patience has paid off, and the sculpture they worked so hard on, will be revealed on the yard of the Ozark Guidance Center April 9.
