“Expression of Faith and Fear: The Chauvin Sculpture Garden by Kenny Hill” by Deborah Cibelli

Description

From 1988 until he abandoned the site in 2000 at the age of 52, Kenneth Hill created approximately one hundred cement statues of angels and other figures on nine round platforms that he placed around a meandering pathway through the garden in Chauvin, Louisiana, 60 miles south southwest of New Orleans. Hill filled his garden with numerous self-portraits, angelic figures and other imagery that suggested the garden was autobiographical and that he had a psychological investment in the religious imagery. The community, including neighbors and persons affiliated with Nicholls State University, the institution charged with preserving the site, have responded to the power of the artist’s vision, making the site an important resource for community events such as the “Blessing of the Fleet” an annual parade of boats held annually at the garden bordering the Bayou Petit Caillou. This presentation will discuss the preservation of the site, it will examine the religious symbolism as an expression of faith and fear, and it will discuss the significance of the site as a ritual space for the community.

Duration

35 minutes, 18 seconds

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