Bison Prairie Sculptures recently restored

By Joy Cardin Chair, Midvale Heights Community Association

The bison sculptures nestled in the Bison Prairie Gateway, where the Southwest Bike Path meets Midvale Boulevard, are sitting pretty these days. The nearly 25 year-old sculptures have been professionally restored by Chicago-based art conservator Ben Caguioa, who specializes in repairing and preserving concrete sculptures.

The sculptures were created in 2002 as a part of a community art project led by local artist Bill Grover. Over the years, Bill has patched up holes where the concrete had crumbled, but he said we needed a preservation specialist if we wanted the bison to last much longer. So with his help, the Midvale Heights Community Association found Ben. Ben completed his work in early September, but the curing process for the paint and preservation material can take several weeks. So don’t “pet” or climb on the sculptures right now or their colors might rub off on you.

The MHCA is considering a public event next summer to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Bison Prairie Gateway - which includes not only the sculptures, but a rain garden, a sun dial, native plants for pollinators, a buried time capsule and the Midvale Heights neighborhood sign.

This is the gateway to the Midvale Heights neighborhood. It seen by hundreds of motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians every day. Green Team volunteers still work to maintain the prairie (and more are welcomed), kids still climb on the sculptures, and anonymous residents have decorated the bison with holiday-themed attire over the years - generating smiles and community.

Thank you to those who have donated to support the bison! If you'd also like to support this and other Midvale Heights Community Association programs, become a member or donate today.