
Energetic and enthusiastically welcoming, this piece creates an immediate connection for the public with the shelter; becoming an iconic entrance piece for the Riverdale Animal Shelter.
A dog leaps in the air to catch a frisbee. Across the entry one sees the young child that threw the frisbee. In-between, a cat sitting on the provided bench has it’s paw up in a futile attempt to intercept. The dog and cat will include sculpted details specific to Riverdale, including the names “River” and “Dale” inscribed on collars – reinforcing proper care of pets. The frisbee may include the Riverdale logo.
The sculptures will be cast in bronze and scaled at life-size, the frisbee and abstract element that the dog attaches to will be fabricated stainless steel. Patina on the bronze will be warm-browns. The breeds of the cat and dog will be nondescript for universal appeal. The child will be sculpted gender neutral and racially ambiguous for optimum inclusiveness of all visitors to the Riverdale Animal Shelter.
Utilizing the existing bench for the cat invites visitors to sit next to the sculpture and be part of the composition. The artwork provides multiple photo opportunities to capture happy adoption moments.
The term 'Leaps and Bounds' is used to emphasize that someone or something is improving or increasing quickly and greatly... this absolutely rings true for the animals that are sheltered and adopted here. The sculpture demonstrates the health and vitality that comes from our connection with our pets. It also sets the tone for visitors to the shelter; as one enters the facility; they know this to be a place where animals thrive.