Breakin' Through

After years of hard work, an extensive design process and hours upon hours of research, professional sculptor D. Michael Thomas finally got to attend the dedication of “Breakin’ Through,” on May 14th, 2014. Although the statue itself is well known among university students, Laramie citizens, and anyone who frequently attends a cowboys football game, the story behind the statue’s creation and Mr. Thomas' effort to bring the idea to life is virtually forgotten. From learning about the significance of women's rodeo costumes in the 1800's and 1900’s to building walls and bricks that appear to defy gravity, the genius, artistic ability and creativity required to create a monument this large is truly astounding to those of us who try to understand what it takes to create larger-than-life art. As citizens, it is our responsibility to not only remember and commemorate these statues or memorials and what they stand for, but to also take the time to include the stories of the artists and the extraordinary work they do in order to turn concepts and ideas into visual and preservable art. 

Contributed by IylieMae Hobbs