2023 Lifetime Achievements in the Arts
The 2023 recipient is Bob Cassilly.
Cassilly was born in Webster Groves, MO in 1949 and attended Annunciation Catholic School. He began working as an apprentice for local sculptor Rudoph Torrini at the age of 14. In 1993 he and Gail Soliwoda purchased several buildings and warehouses that eventually became the City Museum. The Project for Public Spaces listed the museum among the “Great Public Spaces in the World.” In addition to the City Museum, Cassilly was commissioned to complete several other sculptures including the two turtles for Turtle Park in St. Louis, the Mysterious Monarch butterfly sculpture in Faust Park outside of the Butterfly House and both the Sea Lion Fountains and squid statue at the St. Louis Zoo. In 1993 he created the apples for Webster Groves. These sculptural and whimsical chairs, with “bites” out of the apples that provide seating space, are installed in various areas around the Old Orchard business district. They have been a favorite seat for children since their installation.
The awards ceremony and reception will take place on Saturday, October 28, 2023 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Gazebo Park in Old Orchard Business District.