The Audubon City Park Stage has a new feature based on the community’s roots now that an elaborate art piece has been installed into the platform. The piece is featured in the center of the stage’s roof. City Clerk, Joe Foran, says keeping the stage beautiful is important as it plays an important role in many Audubon events.
The 24-foot piece features 17 examples of Iowa wildlife, and Iowa staples like corn and native grasses. It was designed to provide some shade for the stage and was created by Marne-native, Arnie Jirsa. Jirsa says this project is one of the biggest he has ever attempted and could not be happier with how it turned out.
It is likely many people have seen his work without even knowing. It is the large metal pheasant near the Marne exit on I-80. Jirsa was an electrician by trade before retiring and becoming an artist full time. He says the best part of finishing the project is the reaction from patrons.
The 24-foot beam was installed Friday morning by Twin Construction. Photos of the new artwork and other pieces from Jirsa can be found included with this story on our website.
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http://www.arniesartworks.com/
