The Lubeznik Center for the Arts is pleased to introduce the placement of a brushed stainless steel sculpture, an inaugural project of the Michigan City Redevelopment Commission, which will bring public art to Michigan City. An outdoor presentation is scheduled for Friday, July 6 at 4:30 pm at the triangle located behind City Hall and to the east of the Lubeznik Center for the Arts in Michigan City, IN. The sculpture is entitled “Clouds and Trees” by the late artist Elliot Balter.

The Redevelopment Commission is aimed at improving economic development in Michigan City and this inaugural project is a partnership between the City of Michigan City, Michigan City Chamber of Commerce, and the Lubeznik Center for the Arts. It is the first phase of a series of projects in the Zone 1 “Beachway“ redevelopment area. More information about Zone 1 plans are available at www.michigancitychamber.com - click on "Committees" and then "MCNEAT".

“This display is the result of several discussions over the past two years with members of the city team, the Lubeznik Center for the Arts and more recently the MCNEAT.  This is the first of what we hope will become several pieces of public art.  We are pleased to play a small roll in increasing the livability of Michigan City through its arts community.” – Mayor Chuck Oberlie

Balter has an exemplary reputation as a sculptor, exhibiting internationally in Chicago area; New York, NY; Denver, CO; London, England; and Marjorca, Spain. His work is also in private collections within the US and Europe. He is a graduate of the School of the Art Institute (BAE) and the Illinois Institute of Technology (MAE) in Chicago. His distinguished teaching career speaks mountains about his expertise: Escuela de Museo DeBella Artes in Majorca, Spain; Eastbourne College in Eastbourne, England; Princeton University in New Jersey and most recently at the School of the Art Institute in Chicago.

Directly following the short introductory presentation, guests are encouraged to attend the July First Friday @ Five event themed “Don’t Worry Be Happy” at the Lubeznik Center, featuring live reggae music by Northwest Indiana’s own “White Dove” from 5:00 – 8:00 pm. Admission is $5 and includes entertainment, one complimentary hot dog and cash bar. If you become a new member at the event you will receive free admission and a hot dog along with all the other benefits of membership. Food catered by Top Dog/ Great Lakes Catering & Events.

“Clouds and Trees”, which will be on display through July 5, 2009, is on loan to the Lubeznik Center from the Estate of Elliot Balter (1926-2006) from Skokie, IL. For more information please call the Lubeznik Center at 219-874-4900 or visit www.lubeznikcenter.org.