Editor's pick: Inspiration in metal

Friday, August 18, 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. Exhibit of sculptures by Barzal, the father-and-son firm of Zac and Barry Shavrick (fundraiser for the Literacy Volunteers of Sullivan County.) The Literacy Center, 63 North Street, Monticello, NY. $20. 845/794-0017.

Barry Shavrick was first smitten by the excitement of a metal shop in the 1970s, when he was working at odd jobs in Israel. After returning to the United States he continued to work in a metal shop, where he began making sculptures on his own time. It was after he moved to Sullivan County that his wife brought his work to the attention of collector Belle Rosenbaum, who commissioned Shavrick to make large-scale, biblical-themed garden sculptures in metal. Ever since, his enthusiasm for metal work has been channeled into the art of sculpting.

In 1987, Barry’s son Zac was born, and the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. At four years old, without prompting, Zac would show up in the shop and say, “Dad, I want to make something, too!” At first he put pieces down on the shop table and Barry welded them for him, but it was not long before Zac was creating for himself, welding and all.

The results are quirky, compelling figures that have some of the angularity and vitality of Kokopelli figurines. His works have not only been displayed at a variety of venues around the county, but have caught the eye of celebrities including members of the Goo Goo Dolls, Ozzy Osbourne, Dr. Dre and Ice Cube, all of whom have bought his work.

Those attending the opening event this Friday will have first chance to view and purchase the latest products of the Shavricks’ passion for metal, with a cocktail party that will include wine and assorted hors d’oeuvres. Following the opening party, the exhibit will continue for free and is open to the public.

A percentage of the proceeds of any pieces of sculpture sold will benefit the Literacy Volunteers program, which trains tutors to teach literacy skills to adults throughout Sullivan County.