Rotary & Arts Center Aflutter on Butterfly Art Project

Large metal butterflies will take over Purchase Street and the village green this summer.

This is not some new sci-fi version of The Birds. It is an art project collaboration between the Rotary Club of Rye and The Rye Arts Center designed to raise money for art and educational programming.

Inspired by a successful program in Colorado Springs, Colorado, “Rye’sAbove” brings together local artists, residents and the business community. The goal is to uplift the community through the arts while supporting educational programs in the region.

Artists are being asked to transform blank, aluminum alloy sculptures (three different sizes) into original works of art. Winning design submissions will be chosen by a panel from The Rye Art Center. Once completed, these works of art will adorn Purchase Street and the village green areas through the summer and fall.

The program will culminate in a fall auction where the butterflies will be available for bidding and purchase.

Artists will submit proposals for butterfly designs (see the call for artists) and winners will be chosen by the RAC panel. A total number of 36 butterflies have been fabricated and they range in size from small (the size of a dinner plate) to large at 48” x 30”.

Proceeds from “Rye’sAbove” butterfly project will be split between The Rye Rotary and the Rye Arts Center and used for each organization’s scholarship and educational programs.

“Butterflies are a wonderful symbol of rebirth and metamorphosis. During these uncertain times, I can’t think of a better symbol to help beautify our community,” said
Richard Sgaglio of Rye Rotary.

“Rye’sAbove is an exciting program that gives artists the opportunity to showcase their work for public display. It also brings artistic expression to our community with these beautiful creations,” stated Adam Levi, Executive Director of The Rye Arts Center.

The Rotary is concentrating on various aspects such as sponsorships, marketing and public relations where its members have expertise. The Rye Arts Center is concentrating their efforts on the call for artists, artwork for projects, website and the artist selection process.