So, This Is A First…
Every year, Colorado artists create stunning works of art by painting mannequins for the Colfax Mannequin Class, a beloved tradition of the Colfax Marathon. The mannequins are displayed and judged during the Santa Fe Arts District's First Friday event in May, where they are admired and evaluated by both the public and a panel of experts. This year, we participated in this inspiring event, and we are excited to share our journey and the inspiration behind our entry.
What was the inspiration behind this piece?
Let me introduce you to my brother, Runulus. You see, I have always been fascinated by the process of transformation, much like how someone trains to become a marathon runner. And that is exactly what I wanted to capture here. I pushed the boundaries of creativity and turned this mannequin into a one-of-a-kind piece of functional art.
How long did it take you to make this piece?
60 hours
How does it feel to know all of the runners for the Colfax Marathon will see this piece?
It's incredibly humbling and exciting to know that all the runners participating in the Colfax Marathon will have the chance to meet Runulus. Did you know, Runulus participated in the first marathon competition on April 6, 1896, which followed the 25-mile route run by a Greek soldier who brought news of a victory over the Persians from Marathon to Athens in 490 B.C.? He’s been running for a long time, so I hope it resonates with them, perhaps even inspires them as they embark on their own journeys of endurance and determination during the race.
Is it nice to have that collaboration as an artist? Something like running you don't necessarily pair with art. So is it nice to have that partnership?
Yes, it’s a nice partnership. There are intriguing parallels between runners and artists. The principles of discipline. endurance, and creativity. Runners adhere to strict training schedules. consistently pushing their physical limits, while artists must hone their craft through regular practice, experimenting with techniques and styles. Long-distance running demands endurance and the ability to push through physical and mental barriers. Similarly, artists often face challenges and setbacks in their creative journey, requiring persistence and resilience to continue pursuing their artistic vision. Just as artists strive to express unique perspectives and ideas through their work, runners often seek innovative ways to improve their performance. Whether it's experimenting with new training methods or designing creative race strategies, both runners and artists rely on creativity to push boundaries.
When did you know you wanted to be an artist? Walk me through your art story?
My journey as an artist began with an interest in transforming the unexpected into the extraordinary. Take for example, Runulus. The wood that forms his body and leg was once part of a cedar fence, while the furniture leg that supports him was salvaged from a side table. It's this ability to see potential in the overlooked and to reimagine it into something meaningful that fuels my passion.
I am assuming most of your pieces do not necessarily include a mannequin. Do you have pieces that you were just like, I can't even believe I’ve done this?
My "I can't believe I've done this" moment happened 15 years ago when I finished making my first woodworking project a dining room table. Inspired by watching DIY shows and reading woodworking magazines, I took a leap of faith. Now, that table stands as a symbol of my journey—it survived the move from Philadelphia to Colorado and is now a treasured piece in my studio. It reminds me of the joy of creativity and pushing limits to make something amazing.
For more information about Denver’s Colfax Marathon here.
Watch the process here on YouTube.
To check other works in person: Denver Art Society.
