Lorelei Sims of Five Points Blacksmith Shop, Charleston, designed and created a metal sculpture she calls ‘Good Morning Glory’ that graces the path along the landscaped pond on the east side of Willow Breeze, SBL’s Hospice House.
She said, “I began donating to Sarah Bush Lincoln in 2002 for Festival of Trees. Over the years, I am honored to have continued to donate art for the Health Center’s worthy causes. The privilege continues with this commission for the SBL Hospice House, an organization near and dear to my heart.”
The inspiration for this 8.5’ sculpture came from her lifelong love of morning glory flowers. She explained that the trellis is made from pipe with compressed areas and rivets at the cross sections. There are three hummingbirds and one dragonfly on the trellis. “My goal was to create a moment in time that showcases the peak beauty of this plant and the nectar it provides. This sculpture is peaceful and makes me smile - I hope it does the same for all who view it.”
Sims worked with local talent to make her initial sketch a reality. Susan McMillan created the AutoCAD files for the leaf and flower cut-outs. McFarland Steel, Mattoon, supplied all the steel; and Derrick Krile of Liquid Cutting Concepts, Windsor, provided the water jet cutting services. All of it was forged and the fabricated elements were done by Sims and her assistant smith, Darin Shumaker. RCR Powder Coat, Charleston, did the sand blasting and color. The finished coat of black speckles was intentional so it glistens in the sun.
For more information about the sculpture, call the SBL Health Foundation at 217 258-2511.