Sculptor in Residence to Offer Free Three-day Workshop

Date: August 5, 2011
Contact: Ace Crawford, 605-574-3185

KEYSTONE, SD - The National Park Service will offer a ranger-led sculpture workshop at Mount Rushmore National Memorial August 24, 25, and 26. Participants will have the opportunity to carve their own works of art in alabaster stone. The workshop will take place in the historic former studio of Gutzon Borglum, the sculptor of Mount Rushmore.

Dustin Baker, a Park Ranger and Mount Rushmore’s sculptor in residence, will be teaching the workshop. Baker is a professional artist and will provide personalized advice on how to create your own sculpture from the early conceptual stage to completion. Artists of all skill level and age are invited to register. Participants will experience firsthand the satisfaction of making art in stone using only a hammer and chisel. The workshop is designed to be educational and entertaining, allowing participants to explore their own creativity, with Mount Rushmore National Memorial serving as an inspirational backdrop.

Classes will begin each day at 9:00 AM and end at 3:45 PM. There are only eight spaces available and registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The workshop is free of charge, including tools and materials. It is strongly encouraged that anyone who registers be available to attend all three days, and those who attend each session will be allowed to keep their sculpture. It is suggested that participants come prepared with a preconceived design that is achievable in the three-day timeframe.

Participants should be prepared to be outside and to endure long periods of standing. Please provide your own safety gear (dust mask, goggles, and gloves). It is required that safety goggles and dust masks be worn to carve.

To register for the workshop, call [phone], and provide your contact information. Space availability is limited to eight participants.