LOVE Art

Most people are familiar with the slogan “Virginia is for Lovers.” Started in 1969 to promote tourism in the Commonwealth, the popular slogan has also spawned a statewide art-installation movement with more than 200 LOVE art installations, and the number continues to grow. One of those includes the LOVE installation created by students at Pulaski High School that can be found in nearby Draper, VA (see photo). The students created the installation with help from the welding teacher, Bobby Petty, who is also a member of the board of the Fine Arts Center.

The idea of love and kindness is the focus of this collection of heart-inspired art. Popular around February, of course, you might also note that some of the art includes aspects of Op Art (optical art) in which the artist uses techniques to trick the eye by creating optical illusions. Can you find the optical illusions in any of these works? Regardless, you should simply enjoy the great fun these young artists had creating these love- and kindness-inspired works.

You’re probably in love with this display that will be the home of the new Max on Main coffee shop. If you’re there, the street address is 28 and you can write 28 on your game card for two squares: LOVE and OP ART.