The Sioux Falls Human Relations Commission announces the selection of the artist and the winning design proposal for the Commission’s Humanitarian Award.

Sioux Falls Sculptor Darwin Wolf submitted the winning conceptual work of art portraying the spirit of humanitarianism and diversity. Since earning his bachelor of science degree from Northern State University in 1983, Wolf’s versatility has allowed him to sculpt historical monuments as well as conceptual designs. His sculpture has been exhibited throughout the Midwest and in competitive national exhibitions. Darwin recently produced the Mayor’s Awards for the Arts, and his local monumental works include bronzes at St. Therese Catholic Church and Avera Health’s Central Offices. Current life-size projects include three figures for St Joseph’s Indian School in Chamberlain, the Monsignor John McEneaney Memorial at McEeaney Field, and the R. F. Pettigrew Monument for North Phillips Avenue. The sculptor’s work can also be seen at www.wolfbronze.com.

The winning conceptual work of art is an imaginative, creative sculpture with visual and emotional appeal that makes a statement. Wolf explains the chosen piece as follows: The primary figure represents our cultural emissaries who figuratively and literally take us under their wings. The figure stands tall in the community with an energetic presence as it leans forward, partially as a symbol of progress but also in protection from the wind. The arms are gestures of wings which create images of two other figures in the negative space. These are the beneficiaries of the humanitarian’s efforts toward diversity. They are not cowering under the wings’ protection but seem to be coaxed forward by their mentor’s attitude.

The bronze sculpture will be presented to the individual who embodies the spirit of humanitarianism and who works tirelessly and believes in equality and the welfare of others by contributing to the growth and development of cultural diversity for all citizens. The presentation will be at the Human Relations Commission Humanitarian Award Ceremony, a dinner held on October 16, 2007. Nomination forms can be found on the Human Relations Commission website at www.siouxfalls.org/relations, or by contacting the office at 367-8745. The deadline for nominations is August 1, 2007.