Conceptualization

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 2, 2008
Media Contact: George Cagala (760) 750-4012

CREATIVE PROCESS ON DISPLAY
Local Indian artist to create art at campus location
 
Local Indian artist Robert Freeman will create an abstract art piece at the corner of Campus View Drive and Craven Road on the California State University San Marcos campus, beginning next week. 

“We are excited to have Mr. Freeman working on location so that visitors and the campus community will be able to see the creative process in action”, said Karen Haynes, President. The art piece is expected to be completed within three to four weeks.

Freeman approached the university about bringing a public art display to the campus.  His time and talent are being provided through an anonymous external party.   University officials were quick to accept his proposal.

Last year, the university commissioned Freeman to create a sculpture of the university’s mascot and to recognize the university’s connection with the Native communities. The sculpture, known as Tukwut, the Luiseño name for cougar, was embraced by the campus community. Once the sculpture is cast in bronze, it will be permanently installed in Tukwut Courtyard, a main gathering place for campus tours.

Freeman was born on the Rincon Indian Reservation in 1939. He is a self-taught artist and began painting in 1961. He has won numerous National Indian Art Awards in oil painting, watercolor, pen and ink, and sculpture. His public works include a commemorative Seal for the State of California embedded on the Capital steps in Sacramento, murals at the Perris Museum in Perris, California, as well as sculptures in Capistrano and Santa Fe Springs. His artwork has been exhibited at the Riverside Museum; University of Vermillion, SD; Shriver Gallery, Kansas City; and Sioux Museum, Rapid City, IA.

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