Ron Koehler is a sculptor with extensive exploration in all types of media such as stone, steel, bronze and his preferred media of wood. As a result, he continually sees art in the objects and places that others might overlook. Such is the circumstance that led to his entry into this year’s competition. “When I first saw this triangular piece of concrete, I was totally inspired. I immediately knew what the finished piece would look like and drew a sketch of this sculpture.” The “where” of this inspiration came along an interstate highway in a pile of rubble that caught his attention, and the “why” was as a tribute to the late Pam Mathews for whom this biennial competition is named. The idea and format of this competition was the brainchild of Pam and her good friend Nan Sanders. She is the one who brought all of us together, and all of the sculpture to Delta State and the community. This piece symbolizes the triangular relationship of me, the Sculpture Garden, and the sculptors that I have gotten to know during the past 22 years of my association on the sculpture garden committee. Included at the top is apiece of cast glass given to me by Glenn Zweygardt who has participated in 8 of the previous competitions.”
