Opening a new set of LEGOs that are a birthday or Christmas present is a dream come true for every child. For the next month, the Victor R. Small House will be filled with thousands of bricks that have been turned into detailed creations.

“It’s All About the Bricks,” a show featuring the unique art of several locals, officially goes on display tonight (Thursday) with an opening reception, to be followed by the exhibit through May 5. The artists reception will be from 5:30-7:30 tonight.

Nearly a dozen artists have spent hours putting together their creations, and according to Kara Donatelli, Arts Council director, the artists come in all ages. More than 40 different pieces are on display. Many of the pieces are original works of art, while only a handful follow an instructional kit.

“Some of these artists have spent hours on their pieces,” Donatelli shared. “We have artists of all ages represented. LEGOs are something a lot of people can relate to. Most people had LEGOs as a child.”

According to Donatelli, the name LEGO is an abbreviation of the two Danish words “leg godt,” meaning “play well.” The Lego Group began manufacturing the interlocking toy bricks in 1958. Since then, a global LEGO subculture has developed.

Richard Bryan, of Clinton, and his family have submitted several pieces for the show. Bryan is a member of the NC LEGO Users Group, based in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area. The group is a collection of LEGO enthusiasts who meet periodically to share their creations and discuss all things LEGO.

“For some, this is a hobby, but for these guys, it’s a skill,” Donatelli added.

The LEGO art, Donatelli said, is something fun for all ages. While it’s a form of entertainment, creating pieces of art from LEGOs teaches an engineering skill. Those who spend time creating with the bricks, she said, use a creative side of their minds.

“This is a very interesting art form,” Donatelli said. “Many people may not think of this as art, but it is.”

Reach Kristy D. Carter at 910-592-8137, ext. 2588. Follow us on Twitter at @SampsonInd. Like us on Facebook.

LEGOs on display through May 5

By Kristy D. Carter

[email protected]

This city made of LEGOs will be on display at the Small House as part of a month-long event that features thousands of LEGO bricks.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_Lego1.jpgThis city made of LEGOs will be on display at the Small House as part of a month-long event that features thousands of LEGO bricks.

Clinton resident Richard Bryan enjoys spending time creating art made of LEGOs and is a member of a state LEGO group.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/web1_Lego2.jpgClinton resident Richard Bryan enjoys spending time creating art made of LEGOs and is a member of a state LEGO group.