The fact that public outcry about a nude sculpture at the edge of Loveland reached the point that it warranted a story in the Sunday New York Times comes as a bit of a surprise, given that the town has built its reputation as sculpture central without a hint of “look-at-me” attitude. Still, if the city wanted to scream: “We are the center of the sculpture universe,” it could probably get away with it. Over the past 25 or so years, Loveland has gotten itself a casting foundry, developed one of the most impressive public art programs in the country, attracted more 3-D artists than you could hope to count, grown two internationally huge sculpture festivals and become home to a sculpture-supply superstore. You can take in sculpture in Loveland year round, or head up there next weekend, when Sculpture in the Park and the Loveland Sculpture Invitational Show & Sale capture everyone’s attention. – Dana Coffield
Getting around: Loveland is about 40 miles north of Denver on Interstate 25. For best results with this RoundTrip, head to the intersection of I-25 and U.S. 34, and then head east about a half-mile on 34. Turn north into the Centerra shopping area to get started. If you’re heading to Loveland for the big shows, visit lovelandsculpturegroup.org for information about free shuttle service to Benson Sculpture Garden and the park surrounding Lake Loveland.
