Wimberley Valley Arts and Cultural Alliance today unveiled its newest Bootiful Wimberley boot in the Wimberley Valley. The latest installation, sponsored by Sonora Bank, can be viewed at the bank’s Wimberley branch.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Wimberley Valley Arts and Cultural Alliance on this exciting new installation in the Wimberley community,” said Josh Smith, Senior Vice President and Branch Manager Sonora Bank Wimberley. “We are strong supporters of the arts and culture of Wimberley and can’t wait to showcase the beautiful new boot at our location.”
The boot was embellished by local artist Carroll Dolezal, who was selected by WVACA and Sonora Bank to paint this latest boot, which she has creatively named, “Two Towns, One Sole.”
“We are grateful for community supporters like Sonora Bank to help us bring another wonderful boot to the Wimberley Valley,” said Hilda V. Carpenter, PhD, WVACA Bootiful Wimberley Committee Chair. “Carroll’s demonstrated creativity, perfectly captures the beauty and culture of Wimberley, which is a great match with Sonora Bank’s deep roots in Texas.”
Sonora Bank boot artist, Carroll Dolezal says, “Finishing a Bootiful Wimberley boot is a bit like raising a child. I cleared out space in my studio for this huge boot, then I lovingly worked for days and months to raise it so it’s ready to go out into the world. Then, I had to release it, just like anyone would have to do with a child. It’s sad to see it go, but I’m really pleased with the way it turned out and the enthusiastic reception it has received.”
The WVACA’s Bootiful Wimberley initiative provides boots to interested sponsors and oversees the artist selection process. WVACA places a call to artists for submissions and presents finalists to the sponsor. The chosen artist must present a high-quality creative concept that aligns with the sponsor and the culture of the Wimberley Valley. The boots are not promotional and do not carry logos; they are intended to be works of art that enhance our community.
Bootiful Wimberley was started in 2014 to help attract visitors to our unique valley and delight residents. Currently, there are 50 boots on display throughout the area. WVACA intends to release another ten boots over the next few years, bringing the total to 60. The Bootiful Wimberley project provides businesses with the opportunity to support local talent in an artistic, creative medium that adds to the character and uniqueness of our valley.
Many people make an adventure of finding the Wimberley boots around town. The Visitor Center on RR 12 has printed brochures with information about each boot and a trail guide to help locate them. The map and boot details can also be found at www.wimberleyarts.org/bootifulwimberley. If you are interested in becoming a boot sponsor, send a request to [email protected] to be added to the waitlist.
