Wassenberg artwork represents changes

DAVE MOSIER/independent editor

With all the changes that have happened at Wassenberg Art Center over the past couple of years — including the transition to its new home in the former Van Wert Armory — it is perhaps fitting that one of the first pieces of art visitors see at the art center is one called “Metamorphosis Archway.”

The artwork is located at ceiling level in the entryway to the art center, just before entering Wassenberg’s main exhibition gallery. The word “metamorphosis” is Greek in origin and means “transform” or “change.”

Artist Joe Bonifas, a graduate of Delphos St. John’s High School who taught art for 22 years at Shawnee Local Schools in Allen County, said he got the inspiration for the artwork from the first letter in Wassenberg.

“I actually used a ‘w’ and flipped it over,” Bonifas said, adding that he felt metamorphosis was a perfect word for both the artwork and Wassenberg. “This whole transition from what the building was to what it is now,” he explained.

Cost of the artwork was funded through a donation from StateWide Ford Lincoln and owner Andy Czajkowski.

Wassenberg Executive Director Hope Wallace thanked Czajkowski, adding that she felt the artwork and its name perfectly represent what was going on at the art center.

“’Metamorphosis Archway’ is just another example of the community reaching out to embrace the new art center and we really appreciate StateWide Ford and Andy Czajkowski for generously offering up this piece of artwork…”

Wallace said the forged-steel artwork ties in the area’s agricultural and industrial tradition, with its industrial look and flowing lines. She said she wanted to place some artwork in the entranceway that people looking in from the outside would see and be intrigued by.

“We wanted something that makes you want to come back,” Wallace added, noting that she first wanted a piece that included lighting, but discovered the structure of the entranceway made it difficult to run wires to the area.

Wallace said she plans to place more “surprises” around the art center, with artwork located in many locations for visitors to enjoy. She added that future projects also include a sculpture garden on the art center grounds.