FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 2005
Media Contact:
Carolyn Bonner, c-bonner@neiu.edu, (773) 442-4240

First Free-Standing Ruth Duckworth Sculpture in Chicago Finds its Home at Northeastern Illinois University

This project is made possible by the Illinois Art-in-Architecture Program.

Chicago -- Ruth Duckworth, one of the leading sculptors of our time, has created "Serenity," a bronze sculpture that will be installed on Northeastern Illinois University's (NEIU) main campus in May. This is the first free-standing Duckworth sculpture to be permanently installed in Chicago. Photos are available upon request.

Duckworth's highly regarded works are included in major private and museum collections around the world. She is recognized as one of the greatest influences on modern sculpture and ceramics.

After fleeing her German homeland to escape Nazi oppression, Duckworth studied art in England. She came to Chicago in 1964 to teach at the University of Chicago. Duckworth, who will celebrate her 86th birthday this year, still spends eight hours a day working in her Chicago studio.

Northeastern Illinois University President Salme Harju Steinberg remarked, "When Ms. Duckworth visited the University, she noted our rich diversity and was acutely aware of the closeness and respect for the natural environment that is evident on our campus. She sought to integrate those impressions into her art, and I am convinced she has succeeded heroically."

The two-story tall sculpture that will become a part of NEIU's campus is a bronze atop a large stone-faced pyramid.

The Illinois Art-in-Architecture Program is funding the Duckworth sculpture with dollars that have accrued over a long period of time in accordance with a state formula on capital development. Payment for the sculpture is made directly by the program to the artist.

Northeastern Illinois University is a fully accredited public university serving over 12,000 students in the State of Illinois.

NOTE: Approximately 80 of Duckworth's pieces will be featured in a lifetime retrospective exhibit on display from April 30 through July 10 at the Chicago Cultural Center located at 78 East Washington Street in Chicago. Contact the Chicago Cultural Center at (312) 744-6630 for more information.