(Peru, Neb.) Critically acclaimed artist Benjamin Victor will be on the Peru State Campus Sunday, March 22 through Friday, March 27 to sculpt the 1% for Art piece for the recently renovated Oak Bowl stadium.

The public is invited to observe the sculpting process from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day in the South Bay on the lower level of AV Larsen.

The larger than life-size bronze sculpture of a historic football player will be located near the entrance to the Oak Bowl stadium.

Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs Dr. Michaela Willis, chair of the 1% for Art Committee, said,” We are excited to have this renowned artist, Benjamin Victor, as part of this important project for our institution. As a committee, we were impressed by his representation of the subject matter, level of detail, ability to capture idea of movement and, of course, the quality of his prior work. Mr. Victor’s presence at Peru State is a great opportunity for people from around the region to watch a master at work.”

Victor got his first large commission at age 23. By 26, he became the youngest artist in history to have a sculpture in National Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol. Nine years later he became the only living artist to have two works in Statuary Hall.

Art critics and organizations, including the National Sculpture Society in New York City, continue to recognize the aesthetic and conceptual integrity of Victor’s artwork. His passion and drive clearly show in each of his unique and profound creations. With expressive features, exquisite detail, and thought-provoking content, the work of Benjamin Victor is sure to take its place among the great masterpieces of art history.

The Oak Bowl project utilized state-appropriated monies ($7.5 million), as well as contributions from private donors, to fund a $9 million renovation of the Oak Bowl stadium, press box, concourse area, concession stand, restrooms and pedestrian access. As one of the largest outdoor facilities in southeast Nebraska, the lighted, turfed field is used for the college’s football program, active intramural program and a variety of other academic and co-curricular activities such as band competitions, camps and high school football play-offs.

Nebraska’s 1% for Art law has been in effect since 1978, and has generated more than $3 million dollars in artwork for Nebraska’s state buildings, the Nebraska State College System and the University of Nebraska system.

Projects vary in size, with figures ranging from $5,000 to $150,000 or more. The number of projects generated each year is dependent on legislative appropriations for new construction in excess of $500,000 and remodeling or renovation of a public building in excess of $250,000. Buildings meeting this criteria must be open to public access in order for a project to take effect.

An Art Selection Committee, coordinated through the Nebraska Arts Council, is established for each project and determines the criteria for suitable locations, art forms and artist eligibility.

For additional information about Victor or to view his work, visit www.benjaminvictor.com. Questions regarding Victor’s sculpting sessions should be directed to Program Coordinator Angie Bridgmon at 402-872-2224 or abridgmon@peru.edu.