Grand Canyon Times

SEDONA, Ariz. - The city of Sedona has recently acquired a new piece of art for Ranger Station Park. The sculpture, named Stormy Bay, was purchased and installed at the park located on 250 Brewer Rd. This monumental 11-foot horse sculpture will serve as a welcoming symbol for park visitors.

Stormy Bay is a unique and rustic piece of art created by artist Dixie Jewett. It is made from old farm machinery parts, giving it a distinctive and sustainable appeal. The city purchased the sculpture from Peggy Lanning, a well-known figure in Sedona's art community. Lanning, who founded the Turquoise Tortoise and Lanning Galleries, was also the creator of First Fridays and the Sedona Gallery Association. Her contributions to the arts earned her a Lifetime Achievement Mayor's Arts Award in 2017.

The timing of the purchase could not have been more perfect. The city was in the process of planning the park's features, aiming to incorporate Sedona's arts and cultural history. Stormy Bay's connection to the past was evident, as horses were the primary means of transportation when the Ranger Station was built in 1917. Nancy Lattanzi, the Arts and Culture Specialist, expressed her excitement about the acquisition, stating, "I am so happy to have Stormy Bay be the first of hopefully many pieces of art installed on this historic property."

Peggy Lanning, the previous owner of Stormy Bay, also expressed her joy about the sculpture finding a new home. She said, "It was my honor to contribute to the arts community in Sedona over my 40-year career, and I am thrilled that my cherished horse, Stormy Bay, will live on in her new home for the public to enjoy for many years to come."

The sentiment was shared by Kimber Lanning, Peggy's daughter, who emphasized the importance of preserving her mother's legacy in the Sedona arts community. She expressed gratitude to the city of Sedona for their dedication to public art, stating, "The Lanning family would like to give special thanks to the city of Sedona for their dedication to public art."

The installation of Stormy Bay at Ranger Station Park marks the beginning of an exciting journey to incorporate more art into this historic property. As the park nears completion, with the exterior features, such as a walking path and wooden playground, set to be finished by this summer, Sedona residents and visitors can look forward to experiencing the intersection of art, culture, and history in this beautiful outdoor space.