Cloverville at the Kentucky State Fair always highlights the very best of Kentucky 4-H projects, and this year was no exception for Marshall County 4-Her Edie Jones.
Jones entered her sculpture, Free Roamer, as an art project, quickly capturing the attention of the Kentucky 4-H Foundation team. After seeing the unique driftwood sculpture, the Foundation knew the piece deserved to be showcased at the Foundation’s 9th Annual Emerald Gala. Jones generously agreed to donate the artwork to be auctioned during the event in April.
Funds raised through the Emerald Gala support statewide Kentucky 4-H programs and help young people grow across all seven core content areas.
Jones created the one-of-a-kind sculpture using driftwood collected from Kentucky Lake after noticing one particular piece resembled the face of a horse. She carefully crafted the collected wood into an impressive piece of artwork that celebrates both Kentucky heritage and artistic expression.
“I was trying to display a sense of pride and confidence that not only go along with the animal, but that also represents what it feels like to live in Kentucky and be a part of a bigger community,” said Jones. “It represents the best part of Kentucky’s heritage and also me as an artist.”
Once Emerald Gala guests saw Free Roamer, many quickly set their sights on taking the piece home. The sculpture became one of the highlights of the evening’s live auction, further showcasing the incredible talent of Kentucky 4-H youth.
Among those captivated by the piece were Brian and Julie Dunham, who ultimately purchased the artwork. “This piece was a nice touch to the normal live auction,” they shared.
The Kentucky 4-H Foundation is proud to recognize the creativity, talent, and hard work of 4-Hers across the Commonwealth and was honored to feature Jones’ beautiful artwork at the 9th Annual Emerald Gala.