Metamorphosis (Bronze)

The shape of the original tree suggested the form of spreading wings which inspired Rhea to sculpt the tree trunk into his beautiful version of a caterpillar spinning a cocoon which bursts into a butterfly ready to take flight. This piece is frequently referred to as "the butterfly" by many locals. The original owners of the sculpture donated it to NJC. The college and the Logan County Chamber of Commerce raised money to restore the original sculpture and at that time, it was moved inside. A bronze replica now graces the lawn at the visitor's center. Beneath a shroud of fragile walls, Quiet lives reside; Changes pass like ocean squalls, Omniscient laws preside. Crawling forms emerge to roam, And forage on the earth; Chrysalis crypts become their homes, For a virtual rebirth. Soon, Mourning Cloaks and Swallowtails, Flutter in the sky; Their kaleidoscope wings, like galleon sails, Catch the wind to fly. -Brad Rhea