Bridge
Last Sunday at Horsetail Lake in Cook County, IL, renowned sculptor Vasily Fedorouk and his wife, Dilbara Arapova, were playing ball with their dog, Era. The 2 1/2 -year-old German hunting terrier chased the ball into the lake and became entangled in the weeds. Fedorouk, 59, jumped into the
lake and rescued him, but became entangled himself. His wife and a bystander, both of whom cannot swim, called the police. They arrived 8 minutes later, but it was too late. Fedorouk had drowned in 6 to 8 feet of water.
I know this is a tragic story. But, it is also one of tremendous heroism. And when I read that his wife said, "He would want to be remembered for his art. He
[once] told me that after he dies, his art will still live on forever." I thought it would be fitting to share his work with other dog and art lovers. I think his sculptures are awesome — in the fullest sense of the word. I am in awe.
To his family, I am so sorry for your loss. There are no words to help you grieve, but know that his works and his selflessness are an inspiration to me as an artist and pet companion.
Legs
View more of Vasily Fedorouk's work at his website.
Read full Chicago Tribune article by Joseph Ruzich.
