Nearly 100 design concepts from 50 artists across the state were submitted for consideration by the Bicentennial Medal Jurors and chosen was Donna Weaver of Vevay, Indiana to create the commemorative Indiana Bicentennial Medal. Based on her preliminary design “Indiana Revealed,” Weaver will work with the minting company to develop the final design which will likely differ somewhat from the initial submission.
“Reviewing the dozens of splendid pieces we received was a thought-provoking adventure,” said Randall T. Shepard, former Chief Justice, Indiana Supreme Court and member of the Bicentennial Commission. “The work of Donna Weaver is exemplary of the artistic talent and dedication to the craft that we see throughout Indiana.”
As an Indiana Artisan, Weaver works primarily with miniature wax portraits in bas relief, popular in the mid-18th century. Named one of Early American Life magazine’s best artisans, Weaver says her portraits “appeal to the person who loves history and wants to see a beautiful, traditional piece of sculpture on their wall or to give as a special gift.”
Weaver studied sculpting, painting and print-making at the Art Academy of Cincinnati, graduating with a fine arts degree. She currently divides her time between sculpting wax portraits, gallery exhibits and commissioned work and participating in living history events and juried shows in several states.
Before retiring in 2006, Weaver worked as a contract designer for the United States Mint in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania designing coinage and medals. She continues to participate in the Mint’s Artistic Infusion program and designs for specific coinage projects. With more than 70 designs to her credit, Weaver has also done sculpting for several bullion companies.
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The development and production of the Indiana Bicentennial Medal is being underwritten by the Indiana Bankers Association. Indiana’s bankers also participated in the presentation of the commemorative medal for Indiana’s Centennial in 1916.
Indiana Bankers Association President and Chief Executive Officer Joe DeHaven noted “We are proud to be the presenting sponsor of the Bicentennial Commemorative Medal. Indiana’s bankers have always been deeply involved in their communities and their state. The medal will serve as a lasting reminder of this special moment in Indiana History.”
The Indiana Bicentennial Commission is a fifteen-member body, chaired by Becky Skillman and Lee Hamilton charged with overseeing the planning and execution of a statewide celebration for Indiana’s 200th birthday. First Lady Karen Pence serves as official Bicentennial Ambassador. Indiana’s 2016 Bicentennial celebration aims to honor our state’s 200 years of history, but do so in a way that engages all 6.5 million Hoosiers and leaves a lasting legacy for future generations. The commission encourages every community in Indiana to take part in this unique celebration.
For more information, see: www.indiana2016.org to discover more about Indiana’s bicentennial history in the making.