IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Lake Antoine Park Partners celebrated the unveiling of two new butterfly-themed art exhibits, adding vibrant splashes of color and texture to the beach house wall at the park. Commissioned by artists who served in the military, the exhibits showcase the talents of local artists Matthew Dault and Dan Recla.
Matthew Dault, a combat war veteran who served in Baghdad, poured his passion for art into his mural, which features intricate details inspired by nature and light. With the support of his father and wife, Dault’s piece has become a focal point for visitors, inviting them to immerse themselves in the world of butterflies and nature near the butterfly garden the park partners installed just last year.
Reflecting on his journey as an artist, Dault shared, “I’ve always loved art ever since I was a kid. It’s throughout my whole family history. My great grandpa was a master violin maker. He was also an airbrush artist, so I’ve always looked at his pieces as a kid, and I always looked at nature and looked at how light bounces off of certain objects, so it’s always been.”
Dault’s dedication to inspiring others through his artwork was evident not only in his mural at Lake Antoine Park but his recent collaboration with the Midtown QuickLube.
‘It’s a humbling feeling that I get that people really appreciate my work and really tell me how they love it. I get to meet new people, and it’s great as an artist, every day is a new journey,’ Dault shared.
Dault plans upcoming collaborations with other local businesses in Iron Mountain. As he continues to share his passion, Dault’s website, daultart.com, serves as a gateway for those eager to explore more of his work.
“I want to thank my dad once again for helping me put this together. He took a lot of time and helping me and my wife. She had a lot of patience with me being gone for all those hours painting, so I really appreciate her,” added Dault.
Meanwhile, Dan Recla of Niagara, known in the area as Rouch’s Creations, unveiled his stainless steel butterfly sculptures that adorned the building wall facing the beach. A peacetime veteran who served in the navy during the 1980s, Recla’s metal creations captivate viewers with intricate design and use of texture and heat to add color.
Recla’s journey into metalwork began over 15 years ago, fueled by his family’s support and a natural knack for crafting. From fish and deer horns to garden orbs, Recla’s repertoire of metalwork reflects his passion for creating unique pieces that bring joy to others.
“It’s so much fun,” Recla beamed.
As preparations for Iron Mountain’s annual ‘Art for All’ event on June 29th at City Park unfold, Recla looks forward to showcasing his creations alongside other talented artists. With a sense of pride and excitement, Recla remarked, “When you pull up this year, I’ll be right in front. We kind of moved from last year to this year. I’m right up front, and I’ll have an alien with me.
For both Dault and Recla, the unveiling of their butterfly-themed exhibits marked not only a celebration of art, but also a testament to their dedication to inspiring others through their creativity. As their artworks continue to captivate audiences, the legacy of their craftsmanship thrives, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter their creations at Lake Antoine Park.
To find out more about Dault’s work, visit:
Lake Antoine Park Partners have an upcoming meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Wed, May 1 in the Breitung Township Hall to discuss summer events schedule at the park. The public is invited to attend.
