Massive Drawing “Classical Sound Waves” Brings Joy of Music to Life at DeVos Place

Mario Angelini is a man with a vision. The long time artist, retired GM design sculptor and lover of classical music is bringing his vision to the 2011 ArtPrize Competition, which opened last night at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids. Angelini’s breathtaking and expansive work entitled “Classical Sound Waves” is installed prominently and befittingly in the Grand Gallery at DeVos Place.

The entry is a massive 8′ x 20′ drawing done entirely in colored pencil and mounted on a wave-like sculptural surface. The musical theme depicts Leonard Bernstein conducting his orchestra as he imagines an Autumnal landscape with 10 legendary classical music composers flanking him in the clouds behind. The classical music is depicted as biomorphic forms flowing through Bernstein.

During the installation process which was completed on September 17th, 2011 it became evident the work was a crowd pleaser as exiting symphony patrons filled the lobby, sharing compliments and praise for the artistic masterpiece . Angelini is hopeful that ArtPrize voters will be as generous in showing their appreciation.

ArtPrize is an international phenomenon held each Fall in Grand Rapids, MI. The event offers a Grand Prize of $250,000 and has attracted artists from 36 countries and 40 states, with over 1,500 entrants for 2011. In order to participate at Artprize, the artist must be accepted by the venue to host their work. Winners are chosen by votes from the viewing public. Angelini was one of 63 artists from over a thousand applications, accepted for exhibition at the De Vos Place.

Week 1 voting is for all art work and runs from 6PM, September 21st – 11:59 PM September 28th. During this time voters may vote 1 time, either up or down, for each artists. It is during this crucial first round of voting that Angelini hopes “Classical Sound Waves” triumphs and makes it to the top 10 finalists, which will be announced September 29th. Results can be viewed online throughout Week 1.

During Week 2 voting begins as soon as the 10 finalists are announced on September 29th. Registered voters may vote only once and may only vote from the 10 finalists. Votes are canceled during Week 2. Voting ends at 11:59PM, October 5th and winners are announced on October 6th.

Painting, drawing and sculpting have been a lifelong passion for Mario who earned his BFA in Fine Arts at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. Mario worked at General Motors to support his family, including his 4 children, Daniel, Paul, Mark and Sarah. When not working or spending time with his children, he would spend many hours developing and expressing his talent. “I’m 62 and to see my art in this magnificent setting and to be accepted into the ArtPrize competition makes me feel that I am finally doing what I was intended to do”. Angelini commented, “I feel like a young man embarking on an amazing journey”.

“I am so grateful to have this opportunity and to share my love of art and music “added Angelini “This is something I could not have even imagined”.

“Classical Sound Waves” is currently on display at DeVos Place, home to the Grand Rapids Symphony, Grand Rapids Ballet Company, Opera Grand Rapids and Broadway Grand Rapids. Out of town visitors may take advantage of the numerous hotels, restaurants and museums located in close proximity to DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids, MI at 303 Monroe Avenue NW.


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