Volunteer Spotlight: Raychel Blackburn, Studio Assistant

Highlights of her accomplishments include collaborating on:

• de-installing and installing sculptures for the Art in Public Places exhibition
• hanging new studio lights in the art barn
• building a rustic chandelier for the Barn Raisin’ event in the tobacco barn
• renovating a tent platform into a picnic shelter

Her supervisor shares that beyond providing an extra set of hands, Raychel contributes an intelligent and curious mind. Mollie explains, “Raychel has a different way of looking at things, which is valuable to me. She comes in with a fresh outlook and is really smart in a very sculptural, creative way. She understands gravity and has an awareness of space. That’s important when we’re moving large things. Plus, she has a great sense of humor.”

Raychel shares what brought her to JSP. “I was at a crucial moment of deciding whether or not to stay in Kentucky when my aunt, a supporter of the Josephine Sculpture Park as well as an advocate for arts in the community, pointed me toward the park and all the wonderful people who make it possible.”

Raychel’s first day working as a JSP volunteer included a visit from Tibetan Buddhist monks who provided a special blessing at the park. They capped off their visit by enjoying popsicles among the vivid wildflowers of Metamorpho-Nest. Although an unusual day, it reflects what Raychel enjoys about volunteering here: “I love it most for the variety of people it attracts, in both supporters and visitors. There are so many reasons to love the park: woodsy trails, fun events, sculptures you can actually engage with - it’s a magical place.”

Not every day is filled with magic, but Raychel can help turn around even the most tedious chores. She helped Mollie clean out an overpacked shed as they filled a dumpster with randomly accumulated items. Upon finding a box which dozens of snails were inhabiting, Raychel patiently removed and relocated each one before discarding the box.

“She truly gets what we’re doing here and it aligns with who she is as a person,” Mollie added. “Raychel knows plants, trees and insects. She has a deeper understanding as a self-taught naturalist; she is aware of what is around us.”

“I think it’s important to have a welcoming space in town where anyone can go and enjoy some peace and beauty,” Raychel shared.

JSP relies on volunteers to get the work done. Mollie comments, “You can’t do this stuff alone, especially with the bigger physical things. Raychel shows up with an amazing attitude and energy and is always ready to help.”

Raychel’s attitude is summed up in her words, “I am honored to be invited in on the dream they are creating and am more than happy to share my skills wherever they may help.”

Thank you, Raychel, for giving your time and talent to the park and our community.

If you would like to to share your gifts as a park volunteer, visit our Volunteer page, sign up for our volunteer newsletter and get in touch about opportunities.

Published July 19, 2024