On Sunday, September 23rd, at 1:00 PM, Sen. John DeFrancisco will be at Sunnycrest Park to unveil the first of what we in the Park Association hope will be one of several pieces of sculpture that will adorn our park. With resources provided by the Senator and the Cultural Resources Council, Professor Ron DeRutte, from Syracuse University has created a piece for the Mariani Peace Garden, located at the end of Clifton Place (off James St.). All are invited to joint the Park Association and neighbors to attend the unveiling of this wonderful addition to our park.

Ron Derutte, a Texas native, has spent the last 18 years residing and working in Syracuse. He received an MFA in sculpture from the University of Maryland, College Park and a BFA in Graphic Design/Illustration from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas. Ron has taught various sculpture courses and has worked as the technician for the sculpture and ceramics facility at Syracuse University. He has done commissioned works for private individuals as well as public and private institutions and organizations nationally. Ron has also received various awards including a Penny McCall Foundation Grant.

“Making art is a direct reflection of my interest in the physical and psychological aspects of our lives. I have always felt that the eclectic nature of my work has been a part of its strength in that it reflects a certain honesty; both to myself and to the viewer. Bronze and steel have been the materials of choice as of late for they offer beauty, strength, and longevity.” (from MPH website)