Nashua International Sculpture Symposium

Posted by Hugh Phillis on Sep 30, 2019
On September 30th, Kathy Hersh and Jim Larson, addressed the Rotary club of Nashua regarding, the Nashua International Sculpture Symposium (NISS). Kathy has a long and distinguished career as Nashua’s former Planning and Development Director, an Alderman and working with City Arts Nashua. Kathy is now Vice-Chair of the board for the NISS. Jim is the current Artistic Director of the NISS and has recently succeeded John Weidman in this role. Jim is a graduate of Hamilton College where he obtained his degree. He has had many public showing of his sculptures and is providing an artistic direction for the NISS that will delight. Some of Jim’s works include 3D wall hangings and various industrial themed sculptures. His goal is to create a cultural dialogue between artists and the community.
Kathy began by detailing some of the things that the NISS programs have been successful in providing to the Nashua Community:
 
    Enjoyment of parks
    Place of relaxation and reflection
    Diversity
    Promoting positive values
    Welcoming of Immigrants
    Provide works of art that are to see, to touch and to enjoy
 
The NISS welcomes three sculptors from around the world each spring to Nashua where for 3 weeks each artist will create their art at the studios and grounds of Picker Studios at 3 Pine Street in Nashua. Each artist stays with a host family while here. The working sessions are always open to the public and in the past various schools have had students visit to watch and learn about this art. Artists in this most recent symposium hailed from the United States, Kenya and New Zealand. Artists apply for this unique experience with applications and Mr. Larson will narrow the field to 6 potential applicants with the final selections made by the NISS Board of Directors. Kathy thanked the many Rotarians who have been sponsors of the art and provided space and materials for past symposiums.
 
Mr. Larson discussed how in many ways he feels the NISS and our Four Way Test share common values. His vision is that the NISS will present art that is accessible to all, build cultural equity in our community and leave long lasting visions of equity. There are currently 36 pieces around Nashua.
 
For more information we were invited to visit NashuaSculptureSymposium.org, Facebook.com/NashuaSculptures or email at Nashua.Sculpture@gmail.com