George Lundeen
Sculptor • Loveland, CO
Distinction: Lundeen was instrumental in turning Loveland into the sculpture capital of the West.
What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in the art world during your career? The biggest change I’ve seen is in the number of people making a living at their art. When I first came to Loveland in the 1970s, there were only a handful of sculptors who could pay their rent with what they produced. At that time there were also just a few bronze foundries in the country. Today, right here in Loveland, we have three very large and successful foundries, not to mention the many around the country.
How were you involved in the early days of the Loveland sculpture shows? Sculpture in the Park came about because a few people didn’t know they couldn’t start a big show in a small town. We started with a small group of good friends, and today we have a really big group of good friends and not one but two really big sculpture shows. One particular outgrowth of the sculpture shows I am happiest about is the creation of the Artists Charitable Fund, which holds an auction to raise money for artists in need.
How do you define success? Success is family, friends, and the ability to pay the bills! Having people stop and look at the work we do is also a plus.
People would be surprised to learn that … Most artists go to work every day and have the same hopes and fears that any self-employed person has—except, of course, we need to be a bit off-center just to think we can do what we do!
What role has Southwest Art magazine played in your career? When Southwest Art called me thirty-some years ago and published an article about my work, it not only helped me find new collectors but, maybe more so, helped me find enough confidence to continue along this path. Since the beginning, Southwest Art has produced a quality product that has helped shape the art of the western United States.
Describe yourself in one word. Lucky!
If your home or studio was on fire, what one thing would you save? People and animals first, of course, then the photographs. Most everything else can be replaced, but it would be so difficult to see my art collection—much of which was done by good friends—go up in smoke.
How would you like to be remembered? With a smile!
Featured in “40 Prominent People” in May 2011.
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