A couple years back, I met someone who told me if I ever had a good idea, to please reach out. So, at the beginning of December of last year, I did just that. Time was of the essence. And after living here for 23 years – I understand Eureka standard time, and how things can literally come to a halt.
All that was needed was approval and funding. I walked around town looking for the perfect spot because I wanted to create a public art installation of the highest caliber for the City of Eureka Springs and for every explorer who passes through – locals and tourists alike. I believed in this project wholeheartedly. Not only was this a personal dream, but a dream for town because Eureka deserves better.
My dream was to create a larger-than-life mosaic butterfly – the Mystical Monarch – and the dream was to unveil it for May Festival of the Arts. The site location was next to the Native Plant Garden, which was perfect because the garden is a certified Monarch way station, and Eureka Springs is recognized as a Monarch city. This would have been a win win. The mosaic would have made an enchanting photo opportunity for the public and the photos would undoubtedly gone viral.
I went through the proper channels and filled out the official application for ESAC. People reached out with recommendations on my behalf, and I was led to believe that this was going to happen.
February is wrapping up soon. I should be ordering materials at this time. March and April were set aside to create the mosaic butterfly so she could be released to fly (installed) for May Festival of the Arts. But between crickets and lame excuses, this is no longer a reality. All that was needed was a little support.
Things are pretty simple really, but people complicate them. I could have continued to play along while this drug out, but my patience ran out. I have things to create. A life lesson was learned. There’s freedom in saying “You know what, never mind.”
I was warned that this would happen. Shoulda known.
For those who gave me sage advice and reached out on my behalf – you know who you are – I’m forever grateful.
Stay Spirited.
Allison Halsell