From a love of building forts as a child, a nationally renowned sculptor has just started work on his latest installation.. and you can lend a hand.
Among the natural beauty of McKee Botanical Garden in Vero Beach, Patrick Dougherty prepares to add to the scenery.
“It’s a bit like making a canvas and drawing on it," says the 70 year-old Dougherty, known as the "Stickman".
Wednesday, six tons of sticks were delivered to the garden for his latest creation.
“Sometimes they’re more freeform, sometimes they’re more like architecture," said the North Carolina based artist.
Dougherty has built more than 250 sculptures around the world.
Most of the sticks being used are willow saplings. That’s because Dougherty says he likes the flexibility that allows him to be more creative as they work their way up from the bottom.
Volunteers help with stripping the leaves from the sticks and weaving the sculpture together.
“I’m thrilled to be here working in nature and volunteering for Patrick," said Linda Richman.
“Getting into there and putting the scaffolding up and getting it together is going to be very cool," said Irena Patrick.
Dougherty says each piece allows an observer to reach their inner child, or actually lose their child for a moment in a labyrinth of sticks.
“It’s something that will last for years and hopefully blend in with the landscape," said Christine Hobart with McKee Botanical Garden.
Interesting in volunteering? Call 772-794-0601. The sculpture should be finished in about three weeks.
To see some of the Stickman's finished work, click here.