The Avian Avatars migrate from New York City to Muskegon Michigan at the end of April!

Friday April 24th- International Sculpture Day 2015!

International Sculpture Day, or IS Day, is an annual celebration event held worldwide on April 24 to further the ISC’s mission of advancing the creation and understanding of sculpture and its unique, vital contribution to society. IS Day will include a wide range of events, openings, educational and promotional activities around the world to include, but not limited to open day at museum/sculpture park, open studios tours, demonstrations, workshops, panels, talks, presentations, discussions, parties and openings, sculpture exhibits, shows, tours…

Please join us for our final Artist Talk and Tour in NYC: If you have missed Avian Avatars and the Myth Makers in New York City, this is the last day to meet the artists and discuss the challenges and joys of team art making. Join the dynamic collaborative, Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein for the closing events at either 5p or 7p. Walk through with artists followed by tea/coffee and conversation at The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, 1412 Broadway @ 39th St.

Sarah Cascone from Artnet and The Huffington Post, recently picked this project as her number one spring public art show in NYC, and the Nashua Telegraph published a great write up on April 2nd about our story. Dr. Jill Kiefer also posted a nice write up on her blog April 1st, What about art? Lydia Warren posted a feature story ... "...went bird-watching on Broadway" on her blog, Today's the Day I. "A Silhouette of the crow from the Avian Avatars," was posted March 5th by Klaudette Ronnielle on her blog.

Monday April 27th- Launch Day of the Avian Avatars at The Muskegon Museum of Art in Michigan

Avian Avatars by The Myth Makers: Donna Dodson & Andy Moerlein
April 27, 2015 – May 1, 2016 in Muskegon MI

Avatar: a deliberate descent of a deity to Earth, an "appearance" or a "manifestation". ~Wikipedia

Since the beginning of human history cultures have identified birds as mythic and transformational. Their seasonal plumage has indicated change, signaled migration and foretold impending weather events. The Phoenix, Garuda, Horus, Ra, Thunderbird and angel iconography all address transcendence and rebirth. The world’s most symbolic birds – the Raptor, Owl, Crow, Pigeon, and Falcon - are flocking to Muskegon, Michigan, to consider our changing world.

The Muskegon Museum of Art is proud to announce that The Avian Avatars will be here on April 27, 2015, and they will reside in downtown Muskegon for a full year. Update: M-Live covered this event.

  

The Scold: Muskegon Museum of Art

Support for this project is provided by Hooker DeJong Architects and Engineers, the Hines Corporation, Eagle Alloy, Nichols, Alcoa Corporation, Annoesjka and Alan Steinman, Jan and Chris Deur, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, and The Cheese Lady. Additional support provided by Verplank Truck Company and the Holiday Inn Muskegon Harbor/Third Street Grill. This project has been organized by the Muskegon Museum of Art.

The Great Spirit: Muskegon County Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Realist: Lakeshore Museum Center

Each monumental bird has something to say. They speak in different voices and from unique perspectives, but this gathering of Avian Avatars raises an alarm, speaking to modern humans who should heed their varied stories about the current human impact on their changing natural world.

The Tourist: Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce

The Tastemaker: Downtown Muskegon Farmers Market

Get to know The Realist, The Great Spirit, The Scold, The Tourist, and the Tastemaker this year in Muskegon! Update: Brandon Champion posted a preview on M-Live April 5, 2015. The Holland Sentinel posted a preview on April 8, 2015. This video, "Artistic Birds Land in Muskegon," was posted on April 27th by WZZM Channel 13/ABC news. "Giant Bird Sculptures Land in Muskegon," was posted on April 27th by Channel 17/Fox News. "Large bird-like sculptures, Avian Avatars, make their nest in downtown Muskegon," was posted on April 27th by Andraya Croft for M-Live.com. This blog " Saturday's Critters in Art," was posted May 2nd on Irish Garden House blog. "Giant birds fly into Muskegon!" was posted on May 4th by Shoreline Media Group. "Avian Avatars" was posted on flickr by Kimberly Mossel on May 23, 2015.

“Love Birds”, The Exhibition! will be on view at Harlow's in NYC through March 2015

On January 9, 2015, the Garment District Alliance unveiled Avian Avatars, a group of five enormous sculptures, each symbolizing a unique, mythical bird. Designed by The Myth Makers, Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein, the exhibit will occupy the neighborhood’s pedestrian space on Broadway from 36th to 41st Streets in the Garment District through April 24, 2015.

“Avian Avatars is a spectacular installation that not only intrigues passersby with its impeccable structure, it also tells fascinating stories that embody the imaginative and creative culture of the Garment District,” said Barbara Blair Randall, president of the Garment District Alliance. “We are delighted to showcase the Myth Makers, and we are confident these imposing sculptures will be the most popular public art installation in New York City this winter.”




Crafted from maple saplings, wire ties and found objects, the sculptures stand from 18 to 26 feet tall, with each bird sharing a unique myth. Avian Avatars is meant to indicate transformation, encouraging the public to heed to the stories about current human impact on the changing natural world.

To celebrate this momentous flocking of Avian Avatars in New York City, Harlow is proud to share “Love Birds” Paired Sculptors: The Myth Makers | Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein.





The Myth Makers are each showing their uniquely individual works in the main dining room at Harlow through the end of March. This show of fine woodcarving will present stories of grand relationships and tender moments.

If you have not seen the Avian Avatars on public view along Broadway – please do! And once you have, come to Harlow and enjoy the intimate work Dodson and Moerlein individually create in their studios.

ADDRESS:
109 E 56th St.New York, NY 10022

PHONE:
212.935.6600

EMAIL:
info@harlownyc.com

WEB:
http://harlownyc.com

For up to date press coverage: As Muge blog covered this story on January 21, 2015 and February 16th published a follow up post. Chun M. published a great review on Yelp, February 1st. This story was featured on January 29th, on Free Events in NYC. Kimberly Mossel posted some great shots on flickr. Mark Rifkin posted some great shots on flickr. Laurentiu Garofeanu posted some great shots on Getty Images for the Garment District Alliance. Professional Artist Magazinecovered this story in their April/May 2015 Issue. “Avian Avatars” was selected for publication in CODAmagazine’s March issue, Art for Social Change. Sarah Cascione from Artnet picked this project as its number one spring public art show in NYC. Broadway World covered the story of our "Artist Talk on Art" Panel Discussion, Artists Talk on Art at Jefferson Market Library Features Top Sculptors & Experts.

Avian Avatars

Colossal Birds Fly to Garment District for the Winter

Flock of Massive Sculptures by the Myth Makers is the Next Public Art Installation on the Garment District Plazas

NEW YORK, January 9, 2015 – The Garment District Alliance will unveil Avian Avatars, a group of five enormous sculptures, each symbolizing a unique, mythical bird that will captivate New Yorkers and visitors on Broadway’s Garment District Plazas this winter.

Designed by the Myth Makers, Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein, the exhibit will occupy the neighborhood’s pedestrian space on Broadway from 36th to 41st Streets in the Garment District through April.

“Avian Avatars is a spectacular installation that not only intrigues passersby with its impeccable structure, it also tells fascinating stories that embody the imaginative and creative culture of the Garment District,” said Barbara Blair Randall, president of the Garment District Alliance. “We are delighted to showcase the Myth Makers, and we are confident these imposing sculptures will be the most popular public art installation in New York City this winter.”

Crafted from maple saplings, wire ties and found objects, the sculptures stand from 18 to 26 feet tall, with each bird sharing a unique myth. Avian Avatars is meant to indicate transformation, encouraging the public to heed to the stories about current human impact on the changing natural world.

The Tourist : A Victoria Crowned Pigeon. @ Broadway between 36th and 37th.

 Visitors drawn to the vibrant city shape culture with their impulsive consumer behavior.

“Who we are cannot be separated from where we're from.”

-Malcolm Gladwell

The Realist: A Red-Tailed Hawk. @ Broadway between 37th and 38th

Everyone has a killer instinct, a desire to fly and an ambition to achieve their fifteen minutes of fame.

“When it comes to luck, you make your own.” -Bruce Springstein

The Taste Maker : A Falcon. @ Broadway between 38th and 39th.

An uncompromising harbinger of taste, the critic is not a populist.

“The truth is not for all ... but only for those who seek it.” -Ayn Rand

The Great Spirit : An Owl. @ Broadway between 39th and 40th.

A humble leader embraces the strengths and weaknesses of humanity, 

and inspires from a spiritual perspective.

“Not all of us can do great things. But we can [each] do small things with great love.”

-Mother Teresa

The Scold : A Crow, @ Broadway between 40th and 41st

A raucous chatterbox has an opinion on everything.

“I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life...”

-Henry David Thoreau

In addition to the art work on the plaza, The Myth Makers are working in conjunction with the Garment District Alliance to bring some very exciting public programs to the plaza this winter. Please join them for the following events:

Saturday January 10th @ noon. Join the Myth Makers for a crisp winter adventure! Be some of the first to see these commissioned sculptures along Broadway in the historic Garment District. Walk with the artists and talk about their ambitions for these major pieces, the materials they employ and how the partnership between two independently successful artists contributes to a teamed concept.

Saturday Feb 14th @ 3p- Valentine's Day Sculpture, Chocolate and Roses. Join the Myth Makers for a midwinter excursion onto Broadway. Come as a couple or come alone but there will be roses and chocolate for all who RSVP! Chat with Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein as you study the work. Stroll glove in glove and enjoy the heartwarming attributes of well sited sculptures in a wintery city scape. ALL romantic souls are invited to hear the Myths of the Avian Avatars. Both artists will be present to share your impressions and their chocolate!

Saturday March 7th @ 10am- If you are in town for the Armory Week Art Fairs – or you have never been – you SHOULD! The Myth Makers will be presenting an early morning tour of the Avian Avatars on Broadway. Start the most exciting weekend in NYC arts with a burst of monumental outdoor sculpture. Meet The Myth Makers in person at The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf at 10am dressed for the weather.

Wednesday March 25th TWO exceptional events:

3p The Myth Makers will provide a behind the scenes conversation about the staging and presentation of their Avian Avatars along Broadway’s Garment District.

6p-8pm The iconic Artists Talk on Art (ATOA) panel at the Jefferson Public Library (6th Ave & 9th St.) in New York City. Join us at a panel discussion on Temporary Public art projects (followed by Q&A)

Friday April 24th- International Sculpture Day 2014!
Artist Talk and Tour

If you have missed Avian Avatars and the Myth Makers in New York City, this is the last day to meet the artists and discuss the challenges and joys of team art making. Join the dynamic collaborative, Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein for the closing events at either 5p or 7p. Walk through with artists followed by tea/coffee and conversation at The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf.

All walks meet at The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf 1412 Broadway, New York, NY and leave promptly. DRESS for being outdoors for 45 minutes! In severe weather you can keep up to date with these events, by reaching out to The Myth Makers on email, themythmakersblog@gmail.com or by finding The Myth Makers on facebook.

About the Myth Makers:

The collaboration between Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein is born from a mutual love of the wild, taking inspiration from events in the natural world and the mysterious nature of animals. Both artists have presented public work throughout the world in unusual locations and familiar haunts, and their affection for site specificity and working with an audience is evident in this series of monumental sculptures.

With a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wellesley College, Donna has been honored with solo shows nationwide. She regularly contributes articles to newspapers, magazines and blogs that demonstrate the economic impact and global reach of the arts sector. Donna has participated in various exhibitions including the Verbier 3D Foundation’s Artist Residency and Sculpture Park in the Swiss Alps, the Fountain Art Fair NYC in the historic 69th Regiment Armory Building, a residency in Cusco Peru at the Escuela de Bellas Artes, and she has been invited back to Qorikancha in Cusco Peru to participate in a residency with Andy Moerlein as the Myth Makers this year.

An arts advocate, gallery director and educator for over 30 years, Andy’s work has been displayed in art museums, sculpture gardens and private galleries from Alaska to New York. He has participated in various exhibitions including the Verbier 3D Foundation’s Artist Residency and Sculpture Park in the Swiss Alps, he was the Artist in Residence at the Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, Massachusetts, and he worked in residence in Cusco Peru and produced work for exhibitions at the Qorikancha Museum. With a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Dartmouth College and a Master of Fine Arts Degree from Cornell University, Andy has been a teacher and gallery director at the Derryfield School in Manchester, New Hampshire, for 20 years.

Avian Avatars is the latest in the ongoing Garment District Art on the Plazas series of public art installations, which has also included Sidewalk Catwalk, Tour de Fashion, Figurations, Broadway Green, Five Elements and, most recently, The Sentinels.

Garment District Art on the Plazas is made possible through Arterventions, part of the Department of Transportation’s Art Program. The Garment District Alliance and DOT work closely to coordinate the exhibit and install the pieces, which enhance the public plazas and make them even more welcoming to New Yorkers and visitors alike.

The Garment District is home to thousands of people working in the "creative economy,” including fine and performing artists, designers, architects, photographers and more than a hundred theaters, galleries, performance spaces and studios.

Please direct media inquiries to Jennifer Passaretti of The Marino Organization at 212-889-0808 or Jennifer@themarino.org. For more information on the Garment District Space for Public Art, please visit http://www.garmentdistrictnyc.com.

About the Garment District Alliance

The Garment District Alliance (www.garmentdistrictnyc.com), formerly the Fashion Center BID, is a not-for-profit corporation established in 1993 to improve the quality of life and economic vitality of Manhattan’s Garment District. Through programs in the areas of streetscape improvements, sanitation and public safety, marketing and promotions, economic development, and community service, the Garment District Alliance supports the neighborhood’s transformation into a modern, 24/7 destination for dining, nightlife, hotels and unique office space. For more information on the Garment District Alliance’s many art initiatives, please visit http://www.garmentdistrictnyc.com.

Update: Paula Ogier featured the story of this project on her blog, Boston Artist on January 5, 2015. Luciana Iten covered the story on her blog, Jan 6, 2015 .Art Daily covered this story on January 8, 2015. Brian Goslow covered this story in the current issue of Artscope Magazine. WWD, DNA Info and Fox News covered this story on January 9, 2015. Artlog covered this story on January 16, 2015. As Muge blog covered this story on January 21, 2015. This Week in New York covered this story on February 10th. The Hippo Press covered this story on February 12, 2015.

Avian Avatars- Coming Soon!

The Great Spirit (owl)

The Myth Makers, Donna Dodson & Andy Moerlein, recently launched their brand new, catalog- if you did not receive one, please let us know! In it we announced our upcoming public art project, Avian Avatars, in The Garment District on Broadway below Times Square in New York City from January-April 2015. To read a full copy of the press release, click here. To see a calendar of our upcoming public programs in New York City, click here. 

At this time, we would like to invite you to an Open House in Boston on Saturday, December 20, 2014 from 1p-3p at Save That Stuff warehouse in Charlestown (Moran Access Rd) where we are constructing these monumental sculptures.

The Scold (crow)

See the recent Save That Stuff blog post here about our Artist in Residence and RSVP using this link- we look forward to seeing you!

The Tastemaker (falcon)

Update: Susan Doucet from The Concord Monitor covered this story, click here to read it. Liz Cahill, From GTI Properties in Boston, Also posted a blog about it for SoWA Boston, click here to read it.

The Great Blue Heron

A Ceremonial Fire Sculpture commemorating 375 years for the town of Wayland!

Lift off of the Great Blue Heron, 50'w x 20'h x 20'd by the Myth Makers Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein took place on Saturday June 14th, 2014 at 9pm.

Update. Robert Whitcomb, featured our story on his blog, New England Diary.

Moose Myth's Blaze of Glory

Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein's sapling sculpture Moose Myth, that has graced downtown Concord for the past two years, made a final appearance at the initiating event of the Black Ice Tournament at White Park in Concord. At 4pm Friday January 24, 2014 the mighty moose was immersed in flames, and was sent out in a final poetic blaze of glory.

Moose Myth began as a public art piece in Portsmouth NH. After a sultry summer and fall it wintered up north at the University of New England "Little Jewel" of an Art Gallery in Portland Maine. From there it came south again to commemorate the "Smile" building on Main Street Concord. Facing the Capital Center for Performing Arts, Moose Myth was an iconic landmark.

Like the Old Man on the Mountain, NH weather and life's ravages caressed Moose Myth with a patina of fatigue. Occasional broken limbs and bark fall hinted that the mighty moose should retire. On Friday, January 24, 2014 it was moved to White Park and donated to the classic Black Ice Tournament by its current owner, Steve Duprey.

Update: The Concord Monitor covered the story, January 25, 2014 and February 3, 2014.

Poised migrates to Kansas City Missouri

Gray-suited and stodgy, frayed but grand, the Great Blue Heron is no bright flash. Elegantly poised, it stands perfectly still, nested in among the tall pine trees. ‘Poised,’ this 25 ft tall sapling and wire sculpture that has stood on the Christian Science Plaza in Boston for the past 6 months as part of Convergence: The Boston Sculptors Gallery 20th anniversary exhibit is heading South for the winter. The Myth Makers: Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein have sold this sculpture to a private collector in Kansas City Missouri and recently sited it on private property at the corner of Ward Parkway and Huntington Ave. Although technically only a partial migrant, this great blue heron will be making a one way trip to live in a warmer climate. The Myth Makers are a collaborative team of sculptors who enjoy the physical and philosophical challenges of working together.

Update: The Kansas City Star ran a profile on 8/29/14 about Steve Abend and his art collection, that mentions our piece, Poised,  "Architect Steve Abend builds an artful outdoor oasis" by Alice Thorson.

The Chorus of the Cicada

For many people, there is something particularly fascinating, and even horrifying about the life cycle of the giant cicada.

Photo courtesy Erin X. Smithers

The bug lives a solitary lifestyle underground for 17 years and then emerges in a blur of wings and mating songs with billions of other bugs to reproduce and spawn another generation of cicadas.

Photo courtesy Erin X. Smithers

2013 was the year of the cicada. On August 24, 2013 the Myth Makers brought this bug to life!

Photo courtesy Tom Lincoln

Do you know the legend about cicadas? They say they are the souls of poets who cannot keep quiet because, when they were alive, they never wrote the poems they wanted to.

- John Berger

Photo courtesy Erin X. Smithers

Update: Emily Yen captured the performance on video.

Wayland 375

2013-2014 marks the 375th anniversary of the town of Wayland, Massachusetts. We were invited to create a fire sculpture for two events celebrating this remarkable occasion, and our research led us to create an icon of what was present 375 years ago that was no longer there, for the first event on June 13, 2013.

The sculpture of a Northern Leopard Frog, once plentiful throughout Wayland but now endangered, is designed and created by The Myth Makers specifically for Wayland 375. Stay tuned for the second act of this celebration that will take place on June 14, 2014!

Thank you Erin Smithers for your fabulous photos!

Poised

Gray-suited and stodgy, frayed but grand, the Great Blue Heron is no bright flash. Standing perfectly still, forever patiently waiting for the fish to swim through it's legs -- elegantly poised.

Myth Makers: Donna Dodson & Andy Moerlein, Poised, 20 ft tall, saplings, wire ties, 2013 will be part of CONVERGENCE: BOSTON SCULPTORS GALLERY EXHIBITS AT THE CHRISTIAN SCIENCE PLAZA, May 1-October 31, 2013.