Wilson Public Library Sculpture Garden

This sculpture garden dates back to 2012, when a work in honor of a long-serving board member was donated to the library. Since that time, the library and its supporters have worked to expand the garden to include works that blend art and nature to help residents and visitors form a sense of place unique in the world. This effort reflect Wilson Public Library's goal to support Cozad’s commitment to artistic expression and to the natural world. Inspired by the numerous art pieces within the library, the sculptures around the library amplify the importance of literacy, industriousness, self-growth, and togetherness. Open to the public 24/7, the Wilson Public Library Sculpture Garden display encourages visitors to meander the pathways and ponder the message of each piece.

“Just make a mark and see where it takes you.” from The Dot, by Peter H Reynolds.

The library’s first outdoor artwork was donated in 2012 in memory of Gerald “Red” Davenport, a long-serving board member. Two young children sit on a bench learning their ABCs together: the beginning steps of literacy. This was the first mark. Today, seven pieces are currently on exhibit outdoors:

· Wisdom and Understanding, Gary Lee Price

· Knowledge, Gary Lee Price

· Two Kids on a Bench, Max Turner

· Metal Book Page, Justin Kinnan

· Windswept Reflections, concept by Trudy Geiger

· The Reading Tree, Preston McDaniels

· Peacock Wings, Karen Neppl

Each piece has a story behind it waiting to be explored: some are inspirational, while others are motivated by sorrow. Peacock Wings, acquired in 2021, is part of a collection seen around Cozad in both obvious places as well as unexpected ones. The series of Rhakenna’s Wings memorializes one of our own: a joyful 3-year-old who passed away unexpectedly. This tribute gave the Cozad community an outlet for its grief, not just for Rhakenna, but for all those carried from this life to the next on the wings of angels. Each pair of wings is a spark of joy designed to bring delight and whimsy, just what a 3-year-old would enjoy.

As the library continues to expand its art collection, community is at the forefront of planning. Butterfly benches and new landscaping will soon grace the outdoor spaces, available through the Cozad Library Foundation. The library also invites the community indoors. During the library’s open hours, the public is also invited inside to explore the ever-growing indoor art collection featuring both local and regional artists. Art is a verb, ever changing, ever reflecting the heart and soul of a town and it belongs everywhere.

Laura Rody, Wilson Public Library, Cozad Writing Society Coordinator