The principals who comprise Actual Size Artworks are sculptors, public artists and architects, who work individually and as part of Actual Size Artworks, a collaborative team.  Their work is characterized by a strong profile, a sense of humor, and excellent craftsmanship. They state that they believe that artwork can highlight and interpret a community, help clarify a busy and visually dense space, and create a space for imagination and possibility. According to the artists, public spaces that contribute to the common good seem more important than ever today; cultivating a sense of rapport is a strength of ours.

Gail Simpson has an MFA in Sculpture from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. In addition to her permanent commissions she has also exhibited temporary projects around the United States and Europe. Her recent projects reflect her interest in landscape materials and the natural environment and her involvement with local community issues. She is originally from Chicago and resides in Stoughton, Wisconsin and teaches at the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Aris Georgiades is originally from Pittsburgh, PA.  He has an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and a BFA from University of Michigan. In addition to the public art projects, he makes smaller-scale sculptures using salvaged building materials and objects. These often relate to issues of adaptability and the changing nature of work, and ask questions about usefulness and ambition. He resides in Stoughton, Wisconsin and teaches at the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

Dean Proctor is an architect, urban designer, and graphic communicator, and a principal at Vandewalle & Associates in Madison WI. He benefits from many years of professional experience in design and management positions with architectural, urban design, and planning consulting firms. Dean specializes in developing “experience” and interpretive concepts for unique places, and redevelopment concepts for critical urban sites.  Projects such as the John Deere Pavilion and Collector’s Center, the Davenport River Music Experience, and the Moline Bass Street Landing among others, represent Dean’s design acumen at every scale.