1. What was your role in this project?
   My primary responsibilities were Artist Consultant and Construction Administration. This included working with artists and manufacturers to complete parts of the project such as the USS Wichita Memorial wall, the Veterans Memorial wall, the Troll, site furnishings and the interpretative walls at the Keeper Plaza. C/A involved consulting with Law Kingdon on aesthetic decisions throughout the project. I also carved the buffalo at the Keeper Plaza and did the final design work on the Memorial Walls and the pile cap at the river’s edge.

2. Why did you want to work on this project?
   This was one of the most significant art projects ever done in Wichita. I wanted to be involved.

3. What is your favorite part of this project?
   I enjoy the walk from the 2nd Street Bridge to the Keeper, the two Memorial walls are especially nice. The Veterans Memorial wall behind the Farm Credit Building is an interpretation of war with two different types of limestone clashing and becoming a third type in the center. The Memorial for the USS Wichita portrays the WWII heavy cruiser in an abstract with limestone block.

4. Was there a time when you said, "What have I gotten myself into?" If yes, when?
   Yes, Almost every day. No, I’m Kidding. It was an amazing group project. There were times of frustration but we managed to work together and resolve them. Working with Kurt Skinner, Greteman Group, Todd Whipple, Connie Ernatt, Tom Schauth and Dondlinger made my job easier.

5. What are you most proud of?
   There were so many people, companies, artists and city officials that worked on this expansive project. That also meant that there were about as many different opinions and ideas. But everyone pulled together to accomplish one common goal: to make this a world-class project for Wichita that would be enjoyed for future generations to come.

BIO
Brunner holds a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Bethany College and a master’s of fine arts in sculpture from Wichita State University. An active artist for almost 30 years, Brunner is equally adept with public art projects, private commissions or themed exhibitions. Brunner’s art can be seen throughout Wichita. In addition to the work for the River Corridor project, he recently created a monolithic sculpture for ABC-TV’s “Extreme Home Makeover.” For more information about Chris Brunner, visit his website at www.brunnersculpture.com.