‘LOVE’ Sculpture Completed in Pearisburg

FROM GILES COUNTY, VA – The story begins during the 2017 Giles Summer Feeding Program. The story continues through the 2017-2018 school year. The story is about to make its permanent mark on the landscape of Giles County. On August 21 at 2pm a brand new LOVE sculpture will be unveiled in Pearisburg with special guests and a short ceremony.

But what makes this ‘LOVE’ so special? This public art installation features over 3,500 rocks, from Giles County, painted by every child age 4 through 12 in public, private, and home school. This ambitious project is a joint effort between the Giles County Public Schools, Giles Early Education Project (GEEP), the Summer Feeding Program, county employees, volunteers, and residents. For the last year, volunteers and faculty members have been working with young people to express their creative side by painting rocks that in some way, represents who they are or what makes them special.

New LOVE Sculpture

Work has been underway near the Giles County Courthouse since early July supported by local masons and ACCE student volunteers. The concept and design work was completed by a local group of teachers and volunteers. Funding for the LOVE sculpture has come from gracious donations from The Palisades Restaurant and community organizations. The Virginia Tourism Corporation, who markets state-wide LOVEWorks, also awarded a mini grant to support the construction costs. The finished project will stand approximately 6 foot high and 12 foot long, with all 3,500 rocks uniquely representing Giles. It will be located along Main Street between the Courthouse and Treasurer’s Office.

On August 21st guests are invited to the unveiling of Virginia’s newest LOVE and a true celebration of travel, people, and community. Special guests include The Honorable Governor Ralph Northam, representatives from Virginia Tourism Corporation, Giles County School Board members, project leaders, and the students themselves. There will be plenty of parking in the municipal parking lot at the Courthouse.

Contact

Cora Gnegy
Giles County Tourism Marketing Department
540-921-2079
cgnegy@gilescounty.org
203 N. Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134

Giles County, Virginia is located in Southwest Virginia approximately 40 minutes south of Roanoke and just west of Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. With easy access to the New River, world class dining and lodging properties, and historical attractions for the entire family, Giles offers adventure in Virginia’s Mountain PlaygroundTM. Come find your playground at our Visitors Center located at 203 N Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134 or find us online at gilescounty.org or by calling 540-921-2079. For interviews or onsite visits, please contact Cora Gnegy, Tourism Marketing Director. We can arrange and assist with any media needs. For more information about planning your visit to Giles County or about activities and events, please visit www.gilescounty.org or contact us at tourism@gilescounty.org.

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.