What happened to the Herons of La Crosse?
Well, after two summers on the streets of La Crosse, some were sold but many migrated into storage....and now debut on eBay. Al Louis, a board member of the Pump House Regional Arts Center and known to many as 'The Designing Jeweler', completed the work to get 16 of the original 35 herons listed in the online auction site.
Donald Smith, Board Chair and Heron Master, indicated that the Herons of La Crosse public art project was more of a 'friend raiser' than a 'fund raiser.' "As intended, the artwork stimulated activity in the central commercial core by attracting both visitors and locals while celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Pump House. One need only have passed by a Heron anytime from morning till night to see someone posing for a picture to know it was a success. Now we would like to raise some additional support for the local artists who participated. If we won't support local artists, who will?"
Toni Asher, Executive Director, noted that auction proceeds from the sale of the Herons primarily benefit the participating artists and 2 local not-for-profit organizations. The Pump House will retain one-third of the auction proceeds to promote artistic programming at the cultural center.
It was not the best time of the economic cycle to be selling 6' 2" heron sculptures for lawn or business ornaments.....but this will answer the oft ask question, 'Can I get a Heron?' Yes you can, on eBay.
Heron note cards and T-shirts are currently available for purchase at the Pump House. To discuss a sponsorship, purchase or to volunteer to help with The Herons of La Crosse, phone 608-785-1434; or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it or visit the Pump House at 119 King Street, La Crosse, WI.
Notecard Sets: These sets of 36 full color cards with envelopes come in a gift box with elastic tie. The back of each card has a descriptive paragraph about the featured heron on the front and lists the artist(s), sponsor(s) and the name of the heron. Sets are $20 each, including sales tax. Notecards are available at the Pump House and select locations in La Crosse. You may also order online. Each box is$20.00 plus $10.00 shipping and handling. We also have Heron Posters available. These can be purchased from the Pump House for $5.00.