Florence sculptor Alex Palkovich wins national award

From Pee Dee Arts:

Plenty of Florentines are familiar with the work of sculptor Alex Palkovich, and now that recognition is extending nationally.

Palkovich won the Exhibition People’s Choice Award at the 80th annual National Sculpture Society late last month, saying it was one of the most special recognitions he has ever received.

“Hundreds of people applied, so it was an honor to be able to participate in the exhibition,” he said.

The sculpture, entitled “On The Way To The Market,” depicts a woman with a basket of produce on her head walking to the market. Six years ago Palkovich read an article in a Charleston magazine about women who historically sold produce around the city, carrying it on their heads. The idea was hatched right then, but it took him years to find just the right model until he happened upon local nurse Deborah Baccus.

The bronze sculpture will stand about 8 feet tall. Palkovich said he is planning on selling 36 copies as a limited edition release. Eventually, he hopes to get the sculpture installed on East Bay Street, in Charleston, near the outdoor market downtown.

Of the several awards Palkovich has received for his sculptures, he said this one ranks at the top because it was chosen by people, not a committee.

“It felt very special to receive this award,” he said. “Never in my life did I think I could get such an honor. The other awards were great too, but this is special.”

Palkovich’s work can be seen around Florence with sculptures at the Florence Veterans Park and at Venters Landing in Johnsonville.

This article originally appeared on SCNow.com and was written by John Russell.

Via: Pee Dee Arts