Annie’s Book Stop of Worcester is delighted to shine our Friday spotlight on artist (and now author) Nancy Schön! Nancy is the creator of the much loved “Make Way For Ducklings” sculpture in Boston, along with the “Tortoise and the Hare” sculpture at the end of Boston Marathon route, along with many, many more. Her story of becoming a public artist and the story behind many of her amazing creations, can be found in her book, Make Way for Nancy.
Nancy will be at our 65 James Street store THIS SATURDAY, December 9, from 1:00 – 3:00 PM to talk about her work, her art process, and to sign books.
(Gift-giving idea: Do you have an artist in your life who needs a present? Make Way for Nancy not only is the inspirational story behind her becoming a public artist, but it also includes a lot of important information for people interested in becoming sculptors themselves—from the process to getting funding.)
Thank you very much for joining us, Nancy! Can you please tell us briefly a little about yourself and your work? How would you like us to introduce you?
For 20 years or so, I was represented by galleries all over the United States. Once I did “Make Way for Ducklings” sculpture, I called myself a public art sculptor.
What kind of research goes into your work?
I do a great deal of research for each sculpture I do, particularly if I’m doing an animal. Each one has different physical, anatomical issues, and each has fascinating features.
What draws you to the particular genre or style that you write? What do you think draws readers to these kinds of books?
Few people understand the complicated process of making a bronze sculpture. This is even more complicated when making a bronze Public Art Sculpture. I like educating people about what I do. I like knowing what others do.
What is your favorite part of being a writer? Of the whole writing and publishing process? What do you think has been your greatest lesson in the journey thus far?
I don’t think of myself as a writer, but It was extraordinary when I realized that writing is like making a sculpture. You write a little, then you take it away and then you add some( like the clay), then you take it away or you add or you dump the whole thing and start over. The creative process is so much the same.
What piece of advice would you want to share with other writers?
Never give up. Like the tortoise, “Slow and Steady wins the race.”
What else can we expect from you in the near future?
More public art sculpture.
What is/are your passions when you’re not writing? How do you make time for your non-writing hobbies/things you love?
I am an athlete, so I always make time for playing tennis 2 or 3 times a week or swimming everyday in the summer and riding my stationery bike in-between. Exercise keeps my mind and body in good shape. I do a 247 piece jig saw puzzle on my computer every day before I go to bed.
Where can people find your work? (Besides ABSW ;)–though they should totally check here first!)
I represent myself, so my work is to be seen and bought at my home/studio in Newton, MA.
How can we follow your work, share your awesomeness, or otherwise stalk you in a totally non-creepy way?
Check my web site and watch various media. http://www.schon.com/
Thank you again for the interview, Nancy, and we look forward to having you at the book store TOMORROW, Saturday, December 9, from 1:00 – 3:00 PM!
Annie's Book Stop of Worcester 