The Orange County Arts Commission (OCAC), in partnership with Orange County Animal Services (OCAS) unveiled a new public art piece, Calypso Cat by Chapel Hill artist Mark Elliott. The unveiling reception was held Thursday, June 29, 2017, at 6pm at 1601 Eubanks Road in Chapel Hill.
A hand-made, painted steel sculpture, Calypso Cat is the newest addition to OCAS’ public art collection, also featuring Sit and Stay by Carrboro artist Mike Roig. It will be located outside the primary entrance to OCAS, welcoming visitors to the facility.
Mark Elliott was born and raised in Detroit Michigan. He received a BFA from UNC Chapel Hill. After graduating, he moved to Italy where he maintained a studio In Umbria for three years. Upon returning to the States he settled in New York City and maintained a studio there for many years. Mark returned to North Carolina in the eighties and built a house and studio where he remains today. Elliott is primarily a sculptor, working in steel, clay and wood. He also makes prints, paintings and collages. His work is represented in private, public and corporate collections all over the world.
Elliott was selected by a panel of OCAC and OCAS board members following a Request for Qualifications issued in late 2016.
For more information, please visit the arts commission’s website at www.artsorange.org, call 919-245-2335 or email arts@orangecountync.gov.
