A day that covered ground of various textures, colors and forms. We began the day with a visit to the world of Clyde and Nancy Wynia. Out in the woods on Sugarbush Lane we parked in the provided spaces and immediately felt the welcome mat was out. There were "Open" signs and an encouragement to see the wonders in the field next to a classic white Wisconsin farmhouse built in the 1880s.
We were immediately taken aback by the sheer volume of critters that loomed above and below us. There was a Noah's ark-like explosion of rusty creatures in every direction. The second thing that was noticeable was the technical skill and welding mastery in virtually every piece; this guy can weld. Next was the overt humor in every creation. The artist must have a healthy sense of humor....... Then we met Clyde.
Can you say "schtick"? The guy is a running routine worthy of Jack Benny, Rodney Dangerfield or Johnny Carson. Every piece has a story and punchline. It was a pun festival and Rodney (not the Dangerfield) jumped right on that bandwagon -- this opened a levels of instant "buddy-ship" and the pun competition was on; poor Susan. It really was amazing and funny.
Eventually we met the lovely Mrs. Wynia, Nancy. She works in glass and is the straight man/woman for Clyde's banter. She was an eye-rolling sweetheart. We got a tour of her store and then her studio. She shares an endearing sense of humor as can be seen in her work as well. The two of them were a real treat. Susan even got a tour of their home and it's history. There were stories to hear and they were genuinely interested in our tales and lives. If we lived near by, I am sure we would visit these sweet humans often. It was hard to leave and there are more rusty fish in the sea to see. With smiles upon our faces we left the Rusty Art Improv reluctantly.
Note: Clyde is a retired lawyer; yes you read that correctly. This untrained artist and fountain of witty and well executed iron wonders is from that oft maligned profession; go figure.
After a quick lunch and bit of a drive, we found our way to "Prairie Moon" - a sculpture garden. This is yet another of the art conservation projects of the Kohler Foundation (those faucet sales must have really added up), Wisconsin and outside/visionary art lovers is very grateful for such an active and passionate art benefactor.
The site is the actual focused on the previous owner and creator of most of the art environment, Prussian immigrant Herman Rusch. There are his fences, walls shrines and sculptures dominating the landscape. His collection of curiosities are held within the museum (closes and no hours posted, drat!). His style and craftsmanship is very apparent.
Also in the grounds are work by three other artists: 1. John & Bertha Mehringer - all constructed with concrete and broken glass (sharp side out) 2. Fred Schlosstein's pond, fisherman and animals 3. Halvor Landsverk - his quirky figures are at once humorous and with a dark side (see guy fighting bear and polar bear with prey).
The entire environment is quite beautiful as it tucked in a valley of corn and the ubiquitous dairy cows, silos and fields. As seen in all the Kohler managed sites, it was pristine and included appropriate information and historical data..... Thank you Kohler Foundation and Mr. Herman Rusch.
It is with renewed spirit we headed off into a Wisconsin sunset with great anticipation of what more we will find.
Love, rim shots, iron and concrete,
Can't Get No Respect Rodney and Susie Punchline
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