Art from the heart

Some folks don't just like the way all that art in downtown Coeur d'Alene looks.

They like the way it feels.

Sure, it's yet another collection of memorable magnets that will help give out-of-towners a little more to admire upon visiting the heart of the city. But the outdoor sculptures, on exhibit and for sale as part of a program called ARTcurrents, enhances the wandering and wondering experiences of those who live and work here, too.

As with a lot of great art, controversy is its bedfellow. A certain segment of the citizenry might be disgusted by the sculpture of, say, a Hindu god, but most people harbor no such political or religious insecurities. It's art. Everyone has equal opportunity to adore it. Or ignore it.

We choose to adore it.

We like the way it feels.

We applaud Coeur d'Alene city officials and the art selection committee not just for their diligence, but for their courage in bringing ARTcurrents to the community. Skeptical? One minute with Sondra Jonson's "Rachel Weeping for Her Children" will, we predict, turn some critics into believers - believers that no matter their source of inspiration, artists are a blessing on civilization.

Press Poll

Does the sculpture of a Hindu god belong in downtown Cd'A? Go to cdapress.com and vote.