By Sandhills Post Staff
Ogallala, NE – A new cultural chapter begins in Ogallala today as the city unveils its first-ever Western Trails Sculpture Walk, launching with a special kick-off celebration on Monday, May 5 at 5:00 PM.
Hosted in the heart of the community at Eccentric Lamb Fiber Arts (111 N Spruce Street), the event promises an engaging and artistic start to what organizers hope becomes a tourist destination. Guests can meet several of the sculpture artists behind the exhibit and participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony just outside the newly revitalized pocket park alleyway.
Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to take a self-guided tour through Ogallala’s Western Trails Creative District, where a collection of outdoor sculptures will now reside for the next year. Each installation features a QR code linking to AutoCast, a mobile platform offering in-depth insights into the sculptures and their creators.
The celebration continues at Second Chapter Brewing (203 W A Street) starting around 6:00 PM, where guests can enjoy live music by Skipping Stones, a Cinco de Mayo-themed taco bar, and further conversation with participating artists. The entire event is free and open to the public.
“This is the first year of our sculpture walk, and we’re excited to be joining five other Nebraska communities as part of SWAN—Sculpture Walk Across Nebraska,” said Molly Jeffres of Keith County Area Development (KCAD). “It’s definitely a labor of love, but it’s also part of a bigger plan for Ogallala’s downtown.”
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Ogallala became a certified Western Trails Creative District in 2023, making it eligible for significant arts funding. In April, the district received a $100,000 development grant from the Nebraska Arts Council, a major step toward realizing a 10-year vision for the area. The sculpture walk is the district’s first signature project, with more planned for 2026 and 2027.
Jeffres encourages community members to get involved. “If anyone wants to be a part of the creative district’s efforts, reach out to KCAD. We’d love to include more voices as we continue shaping the future of downtown Ogallala.”
The Western Trails Sculpture Walk is made possible through collaboration between KCAD, the Ogallala SWAN Committee, the Ogallala Regional Arts Council (ORAC), and other valued community partners.
For more information, contact KCAD or visit during Monday’s celebration to be a part of history in the making.