Dallas architect Nicholas Dean's sculpture was inspired by noted artist John Henry and was commissioned by C.C. Young Senior Living.

Dallas architect Nicholas Dean’s sculpture was inspired by noted artist John Henry and was commissioned by C.C. Young Senior Living.

A newly commissioned piece of modern art will hopefully become a community gathering spot on the grounds of C.C. Young Senior Living. And just in time to celebrate Grandparent’s Day.

Sign up for our newsletter

* indicates required

Longtime C.C. Young supporters Ray and Nancy Ann Hunt wanted to donate funds to bring a piece of art to the campus, something that would be both functional and beautiful. While flipping through an art magazine one day, Nancy Ann Hunt found a sculpture that she liked, so she tore the corner of the page out and sent it off to the team at C.C. Young with a note saying she preferred something in that modern style.

“It looked like a beautiful pile of Pick-Up Sticks,” says C.C. Young spokesperson Jennifer Griffin. “We had no information on who made it or where it was.”

Instead, they contacted Nicholas Dean of D2 Architecture in Dallas, who immediately recognized the inspiration as a piece of work by John Henry. Henry, a noted American constructivism artist whose minimalistic works grace major museum all over the world, including the Dallas Museum of Art, is rumored to be working on a new installation somewhere in Dallas.

Dean developed his own design, using Henry’s work as inspiration. The result is a modern, stylized structure that will offer shade and a space to gather. Griffin hopes it serves as a draw for neighbors, somewhere community groups can gather.

“We already have a number of groups who meet on our campus,” she says. “We want to bring people in.”

C.C. Young will unveil the new work of art during a public celebration on Sunday, Sept. 13, at 2 p.m. Dean along with some other special artistic guests will be in attendance to discuss the work. A Western-themed Grandparent’s Day party will immediately follow. Boots and hats are encouraged, and there will be music and refreshments from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.