Sunday, September 18, 2011

Frank Fleming Bronze Sculptures Exhibit

I met Frank Fleming many years ago through mutual friends. He is the least pretentious, most down to earth, Alabama football fan you will ever meet.

The story goes that Fleming did not realize he had the skill to create until he began college at The University of Alabama. With a debilitating stutter as a child in Bear Creek, Alabama, Fleming spent a lot of time with animals, and his work is a reflection of those early experiences. His work is purchased around the world, and his work remains a popular favorite around the city.

Aldridge Botanical Gardens in Hoover will now own the largest collection of Fleming's bronze sculptures thanks to the donation of art collector/auctioneer, Ken Jackson. All but one of the sixteen pieces will be housed in the Aldridge Gardens gallery. Three of Fleming's sculptures already grace the grounds.

The Gardens hosted an exhibit to celebrate the latest acquisition on Sunday afternoon. Here are photos of the sixteen sculptures, as posted by Larry O. Gay on the Aldridge Botanical Gardens Facebook page.The video below is of Mr. Jackson and Mr. Fleming, as posted in the article written by Michael Huebner, The Birmingham News



This was my first visit to Aldridge Gardens since their move to Hoover about 10 years ago. The gallery was lovely and the wine was flowing, but after a quick appearance I spent most of my time walking around the grounds. The outside was as quiet and peaceful as the inside was loud and chaotic.



The entry to the gallery


Installed in front of gallery and specifically requested for this event
Young Nike
4 1/2 feet, stainless
Brad Morton, artist
A stainless sculpture similar in design but taller, Winged Victory, may be seen in front of the 
Compass Financial Center, downtown Birmingham

Frank Fleming, artist


Frank Fleming, artist



Frank Fleming, artist

 The Gallery
Exhibit and Reception


The Gallery
Exibit and Reception


Outside the Gallery
Wildflowers and Butterflies

Frank Fleming Bronze Sculptures Exhibit

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