An Eco-idea yields “A Sleeping Giant” art sculpture at Coopers Rock State Forest

            BRUCETON MILLS, W.Va. – A giant rests against a tree in the picnic area at Coopers Rock State Forest. He began his nap on Earth Day, April 22, 2012, and will remain in place until nature reduces him to his components of woven twigs, grass, mud, muss and natural materials.  

            “The Sleeping Giant is an eco-sculpture,” explained Forest Superintendent Matt Baker. “‘The Giant’ group project is an art concept of  West Virginia University art sculpture major Ben Gazsi and was created by Gazsi and group members Amanda Smyer and Taylor Bray.” 

            The sculpture was unveiled to the public on Earth Day and is located next to the main overlook parking lot of Coopers Rock State Forest, in the picnic area.

            The sleeping giant eco-sculpture is approximately six feet tall by four feet wide and 10 feet long and was constructed of natural objects found on the forest. The art project was an assignment for WVU art students to make a piece related to human form and designed to be displayed in public for viewing. 

            Gazsi, who assists the Coopers Rock Foundation in trail maintenance work, contacted the forest superintendent and gained permission for the sculpture placement and creation.  The sculpture will remain in place until nature returns the giant to the forest floor.

            Coopers Rock State Forest is 13 miles east of Morgantown and 8 miles west of Bruceton Mills. Its 12,713 acres are bisected by Interstate 68. Coopers Rock offers hiking and biking trails, rock climbing, camping and picnicking areas for outdoor recreation. For more information about the forest and activities, visit www.cooperrockstateforest.com.