We are thrilled to reveal To the Skyland as Big Sky’s next Public Art project. With his latest bronze sculpture, Brad Rude tells the tale of a wolf on his own quest. Looking ahead on his journey, the wolf strides forward with the aid of two wheels and a walking stick. Ears up, erect, with slightly tilted head he appears to hear or see something. The vintage, red bicycle wheels show a folk art influence. The color and animated texture of the animal’s coat adds an element of intrigue. Richly layered bronze patina finishes the sculpture in a most magical way. The wolf captures the spirit of each of us as we look forward to our next adventure.
This life-size sculpture will be placed in a public outdoor location in Big Sky in 2024.
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Montana-born Brad Rude is one of the Northwest’s most gifted artists. A storyteller at heart, his sculptures and paintings of animal adventures spark our imagination. Deeply influenced by wildlife, his captivating subjects emulate stories that mimic our own lives. The artist uses common objects: sticks, rocks and wheels to help carry his storyline. There is a universal quality to Brad Rude’s artwork. It welcomes people of all ages to engage, wonder and enjoy.
The fourth graders from Ophir Elementary School shared their love of local art by writing prose and poetry based on the Arts Council of Big Sky’s next bronze sculpture called To the Skyland by Brad Rude, to be placed in Town Center in 2024.