Love and art intertwine in the heartwarming story behind St. George's new city hall sculpture. A love story immortalized in bronze is what you'll find at the heart of this artistic endeavor.
Meet Jerry Anderson, a 90-year-old artist with a passion for sculpting and a deep love for his wife, Fawn. Their love story began when Jerry was just 17 and Fawn was a cheerleader. She's been his biggest supporter ever since, and her encouragement has fueled his artistic journey.
But here's where it gets controversial... Jerry's latest piece isn't just about his love for Fawn; it's a tribute to the love story that shaped the very foundation of St. George itself.
The sculpture depicts David and Wilhelmina Cannon, two pioneers who were part of the 311 families that founded the Dixie Mission, which later became St. George. Richard Whitehead, a historian and former city councilman, is funding this $115,000 sculpture, and he's particularly fond of the story behind David's convincing his wife to make the move.
And this is the part most people miss... It's not just about the couple's love for each other; it's about their love for the land and the potential they saw in it. David's discovery of sego lilies, which only bloom in May, became a symbol of beauty and hope in an otherwise harsh environment.
Jerry, inspired by the story and the role of women like Wilhelmina, spent weeks crafting the sculpture, using over 300 pounds of clay. He believes every hero should be recognized in bronze, as it is everlasting.
When asked about his hero, Jerry's response was heartfelt: "My hero? This girl."
So, what do you think? Is this sculpture a beautiful tribute to love and history, or does it miss the mark? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
