Christiansburg Mayor Michael Barber (far right) speaking at the unveiling of the fish sculptures on Main Street last Wednesday.
Three local business leaders united to commission custom, whimsical metal sculptures that have been placed outside of Old Town Mall in downtown Christiansburg.
Drs. Scott and Becky Mann of Invision, Jay and Becci Nagle of New River Engraving, and Bob and Annette Poff of Valley-Wide Management have collaborated to fund and direct the “Happy Fish” project. These couples also co-own Old Town Mall, in downtown Christiansburg.
“What goes on in this world of ours can be a little tough to watch sometimes, and these sculptures are meant to take our minds away from that for just a moment,” said Jay Nagle of New River Engraving. “My hope is to see lots of folks, especially the little ones, smiling with amazement, as they come by downtown, and see the Happy Fish. Dave did an exceptional job of displaying the personalities of the fish—they just make me laugh—I hope they do the same for others.”
Dave Wertz, a local artist with work displayed in the Roanoke Center in the Square, is crafting these larger-than-life colorful sculptures. Wertz’s work is already displayed prominently in Christiansburg as well, he is responsible for the iconic glasses that adorn the side of Old Town Mall at present.
Each sculpture will be between five and seven feet in length, brightly colored, and intentionally designed to support a visually pleasing experience for those who live, shop, and work in downtown Christiansburg. The three couples, and the artist, have a mutual goal of putting a smile on the face of each person that views these finished pieces.
“The number of people who live or work downtown has dramatically increased in the last few years,” said Scott Mann, co-owner of Invision Eye Care. “With that in mind, we see downtown Christiansburg as a thriving area with even greater potential. The partners at Old Town Mall want to be part of the good things that are happening downtown. This sculpture will add interest to Main Street and hopefully make people of all ages smile!”
This collaborative project represents a practical step towards supporting the Town of Christiansburg’s vision for a more engaging experience. Christiansburg Mayor Mike Barber spoke to this, sharing his thoughts on the impact of the initiative.
“We’re thrilled the owners of Old Town Mall have taken steps to incorporate artwork in and around their businesses – a move that enhances and beautifies our downtown and encourages inventiveness, imagination and craftsmanship in our community,” Barber said. “We as a town, and as a Council, hope to continue supporting local artists and public artwork, giving our residents and visitors a new and dynamic way to experience Christiansburg.”
The community was invited join in the unveiling and celebration on Oct. 18. It will be held outside of Old Town Mall on West Main Street in Christiansburg.
