The Art in Public Places Initiative of the Leawood Arts Council is proud to announce the dedication of a new sculpture by local artist, Rita Blitt on Friday, September 10th, 2021. This piece is the 24th three-dimensional work in Leawood’s outdoor Public Art Collection. “Inspiration” is an abstract dancing figure that is installed at the southeast corner of Tomahawk Creek Parkway and College Boulevard. The piece was created by Blitt in 1987.
“Inspiration” stands 28’ X 26’ X 1.5’ and weighs approximately 4,000 pounds, making it one of Blitt’s largest pieces. The figure is made of steel and painted Blitt’s favorite color, yellow. The piece was offered as a gift to the City from Leawood residents William and Mary Walker. “Inspiration” was formerly installed at Bannister Road and Hillcrest in Kansas City, Missouri in front of what was originally Hillcrest Bank. In 2005, a five-foot version of “Inspiration” AKA “Sensuously Stacked Steel” won an award at the Florence Biennale.
Blitt’s pieces celebrate nature, natural forms, music, and dance. Translated from single line drawings, her sculptures exceed the expectations for modern sculpture. Blitt’s work can be seen in many museums and private collections, including: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, John F. Kennedy Library, and the National Museum of Singapore.
Rita Blitt is a long time Leawood resident. She studied at the University of Illinois, The University of Missouri – Kansas City, and the Kansas City Art Institute. She was awarded an Honorary Doctoral degree in Fine Arts by Washburn University in 2019.
“Inspiration”, 26 feet, steel, located at the corner of Tomahawk Creek Parkway and College Blvd., Leawood, Kansas
Photo Credit: Bill McDevitt
