Tourism commissioners, local and state officials, and park enthusiasts gathered on Aug. 11 at Lake Malone State Park for the unveiling of Big Twigs, an interactive art installation at the park. Three giant-sized characters who appear to be made of twigs, are a family, known as the Malones. They can be found at their permanent home at the park.
Big Twigs will also be part of a children’s book, written by Ashley Genek, associate professor of English at Kentucky Wesleyan, and illustrated by local artist Jacob Abbott.
The project, which totaled approximately $55,000, was coordinated by Muhlenberg County Tourism, and funded by grants from the Felix E. Martin Jr. Foundation and Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital, and private funding by Old National Bank.
Tourism director Beth Newman said the project was the work of many volunteers, including the county tourism commissioners, state park employees, and the Friends of Lake Malone.
State agencies were also involved in the project. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet made major improvements to the roadways in the park, leading up to the installation. Tourism officials credit the help of State Representative Melinda Gibbons Prunty, for helping coordinate state agencies.
Tourism officials said they believe the art installation will draw tourists to the county, and predict $850,000 in economic impact and an additional 10,000 visitors each year.
