By Joyce Kryszak
Buffalo, NY – Something funny has been going on around here this summer. Wheels. As far as the eye and the imagination could see.
Dozens of local artists put their most creative thoughts into motion earlier this year for "Art on Wheels." Fifty-seven artworks have been on display across the region all summer for "Art on Wheels."
It's getting ready to roll out. But not without one last big "Wheel-O-Rama."
Most of the sculptures - any that could be transported that is - have been corralled at Bidwell Park. And if you missed any of them, now's the chance to take a last peak.
Wendy Huntington is Project Coordinator. She said lot's of favorites will be found there - like a car's worst friend - "Gremlins."
"It's an old junker car that's covered with these wonderful little monsters that are really the foes that threaten the life of your car. They all have names and personalities. There's Guzzle, and there's Screech and Grind and Knock," said Huntington.
"That's a real favorite with kids, and that will be on Bidwell."
The sculptures will be on display through the week. Then this weekend, the project gasses up for the big finish -"Wheel-O-Rama."
There will be children's entertainment, creative art activities, live music, and much more. Many of the artists will also be on hand to talk about their work and sign the Art Trail passports.
The passports were used to guide visitors to the various museums and attractions where the sculptures were exhibited throughout the summer.
Huntington said the trail was well traveled.
"Some of the smaller and medium sized sites really saw an up-tick in their attendance - people who came out to see the art car or the sculpture and then went in to get their passport stamped," said Huntington.
"They were able then to learn about the various sites. I think that was really one of the best successes we've had, is really getting people out to know what we have here."
She added, "For the size of our city, we have a great wealth of cultural and historic sites here."
And if you'd like a chance to own one of the unique pieces of automotive whimsy, the pieces are going on the auction block.
Some are already available online through Ebay. The rest will be auctioned off at Rockwell Hall on October 21.