Scenic Roots

"Scenic Roots" offers conversations that matter in the heart of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley.From the mountains to the river, our conversations are rooted deep within every corner of our community - reflecting who we are, who we were and who we can become.We engage with the news that affects our community, behind and beyond the headlines. We build bridges that span from creators and innovators to storytellers and the outdoors. We focus on our challenges as many communities in one - as we celebrate what inspires us. We resonate with countless voices - in words and spaces, sounds and songs.We are "Scenic Roots."Ray Bassett hosts and produces "Scenic Roots" at WUTC.

Tales Of “The Watcher” With Artist Jim Collins

WUTC

Published October 4, 2021 at 9:47 PM EDT

A “Watcher” in the Hunter Museum’s collection.

(aired Thu 9/30/21)

Around Chattanooga, perhaps you’ve seen a sculpture of the Watcher - maybe near the entrance to the Hunter Museum, at the Edwin Hotel or Sculpture Fields at Montague Park.

Jim Collins - now 87 - created the series of Watcher sculptures found here in Chattanooga, around the Southeast and all the way to Ireland.

He crafts the sculptures out of stainless steel, aluminum and other metals - often in color, usually in silhouette.

Besides his sculptures, Jim’s many talents as an artist include drawing, collage - and decades of breathing life into the design and placement of public art around this city for generations to come.

You can see some of Jim’s work through tomorrow at Ruffner Art Advisory on E. 5th St.

Last week, I spoke with Jim - and Elizabeth Ruffner, the Advisory’s founder.