ROCKFORD, Illinois (WIFR) – Rockford is welcoming two new works of art at the Rockford City Market Pavilion and Veterans Memorial Circle.

GoRockford He says this is another step in his goal of enriching the region with art and attracting more visitors.

“It was truly fascinating to see all the great artists come to life here,” says statue donor Guy Bucciferro.

The initiative launched by GoRockford became known as “CRE8IV transformational art.”

“Our schedule for public sculptures is typically rotating; we bring in a new series of sculptures every two years,” explains John Groh, president and CEO of GoRockford.

However, donors decided to purchase both statues for permanent display.

Actual Size Artworks’ “Magical Thinking” is on display near the Rockford City Market. The piece was donated by the David and Colleen Anderson Charitable Foundation and the Bucciferro Family McDonald’s.

Ben Pierce’s “Hold Me Up” is featured near the Veteran’s Memorial Circle. Donated by the Dean Alan Olson Foundation.

“Sculpture can sometimes be whimsical, sometimes it can be playful, it can be very serious, and we think all of those things add value to the community,” Groh said.

Guy Bucciferro says it’s nice to see new art and murals popping up in the Rockford area.

“Yes, the artwork that came to the city of Rockford was amazing,” Bucciferro explains. “A little bit of fun and a little bit of the unexpected, I think that really sums up Rockford, there are a lot of unexpected and wonderful things happening here.”

GoRockford They say it could take more than a year for more art to come to Rockford, but they say they’re always open to hearing new ideas from donors.

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