By Taylor J. Hale
Reporter

STEVENS POINT — UW-Stevens Point (UWSP) invited local snow visionary Jef Schobert to create a custom snow sculpture on the lawn of the original Old Main building on campus in celebration of their 125th anniversary.

Schobert, a disabled Army Veteran, sculpted a stack of yearbooks with Old Main resting on their peaks. His first experience with snow art dates back to the 1970s.

(Taylor Hale Photo)

“It started in the mid-1970s as a teenager, carving shapes in snow banks as a paperboy in Plover,” Schobert said.

Although he is recognized as a gifted artist today, he once thought art was beyond his reach. Schobert told the Gazette he failed his fourth-grade art class due to a concussion and “never had much use for art.” Regardless of any classical training, the local man creates magnificent pieces that captivate audiences across the state.

Schobert was a soldier in his younger years but suffered a traumatic sports injury as a young man at a base. He later worked in programming until being rated as unemployable by the V.A. in 2010.

“I’m a disabled Veteran,” Schobert explained. “[I was] hurt while on duty from being ordered to play football. MPs tackled me during a flag football game, broke my knee, age 19.”

(Taylor Hale Photo)

Students from the school were invited to participate in the event, but frigid temperatures kept crowds away. Despite a lack of an audience, the artist worked diligently to craft a stunning piece of art and history. University staff is grateful for the tremendous effort the local sculptor dedicated to the project.

They appreciate Schobert’s commitment and talents.

“We so appreciate Jef sharing his artistic creativity to mark this special anniversary, especially working in below zero weather,” said UWSP Media Relations Director Nick Schultz. “The snow sculpture is close to Main Street, so it’s easy to see.”

Schobert believes the”125th should make people see point has been here awhile.” The UWSP staff, student body, and alumni are an integral part of the Stevens Point cityscape. Schobert feels that the university is leading the area in many ways, and was thrilled to contribute to the celebration.

To follow Schobert’s art and newest projects visit his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/snowartclark/.

(Taylor Hale Photo)