One of the newest sculptures installed in the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden is J. G. Moore’s ABUNDANCE.

Here is the artist’s statement:

This garden bell depicts a pair of mourning doves with wild sunflowers. The piece is titled Abundance because it is about the fall season when the favorite food of the doves is plentiful and allows them to prepare for migration.

Doves are a universal theme for love and peace and the position of this pair speaks to the abundance of well being when two become united in common purpose. It is my desire to bring glory to God by making reminders and reflections of his beautiful creation. My sculptures are intended to be acts of worship.

At a distance, this sculpture can appear simple. It looks to be simply a bell on a curved post.  But upon closer inspection, Moore’s intricate design is apparent.  The bell is covered with sunflowers delicately cast.  The birds atop the bell are nuzzling each other in a sense of affection and protection.  This subtle and powerful piece reflects one of the wonders of art – to offer different perspectives at different distances and angles.

Moore has been working professionally in bronze for the last 19 years. After pursuing a 15 year teaching career as an art teacher – he holds an M. Ed in art education – for middle and high school students in conjunction with his sculpture career, James now devotes full time to his art. His award winning work is in private and public collections across the United States and Europe.