Arsenal Oak Vase  The Arsenal Oak has returned to Augusta State University. A branch removed from the tree in 2004 was sculpted into a vase by sculptor James Firth and donated to the university in June. Don Grantham, a long time friend of ASU, arranged for a ceremony in which the vase was presented to President William A. Bloodworth, Jr. "We are delighted that Mr. Firth has given the university this vase he crafted from the Arsenal Oak. Future generations of students will now be able to appreciate the beauty of the wood and know the significance of the Arsenal Oak to this institution," says Dr. Bloodworth. "The inspiration for the vase came from the wood itself," says Mr. Firth. "There are many times when the most unsightly 'bump on a log' has within it a beautiful piece of art, if you have the vision and most of all the patience, you allow it to come to the surface," he says. Mr. Firth began woodworking as a hobby more than 20 years ago. Over the years, he has built a reputation among collectors in the Augusta and Atlanta areas. Most sculptures carry a name, but Mr. Firth has left that honor to ASU. When the vase, which sits on a base that was also crafted from the Arsenal Oak, is installed later this year in the new Jaguar Student Activities Center, a contest will be held to name the sculpture. Other News Stories: Board of Regents | Golf House | Student Activities Associate Director | Arsenal Oak Vase | New Food Court | Academic Departments Restructure | Oliver Wilson | IT Update | Faculty Profile | Staff Profile | Campus Notables | Photo 1 | Photo 2 | Photo 3 | Photo 4 | Calendar | Birthdays | Table of Contents
July 2006 |
