"The Making of Jacob's Dream," an inspiring behind-the-scenes film about the development of a dramatic sculpture site on Abilene Christian University's campus, will make its broadcast TV premiere at 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 14, on KTXS-TV.
Jacob's Dream was created by ACU professor and chair of art and design Jack Maxwell to honor the life of philanthropist Grace L. Woodward, whose estate gift of $26.5 million to ACU in 1998 was the centerpiece contribution to the university’s $100 million "To Lead and To Serve" campaign.
An almost 40-foot-tall bronze sculpture featuring four angels ascending and descending a ladder reaching to heaven, it illustrates the biblical account of Jacob’s dream from Genesis 28. Surrounding the sculpture on the east side of ACU’s campus is an area that includes a baptismal pool and approximately 30 weathered stones for seating. It has quickly become an Abilene landmark, with people visiting it at all hours for study, baptisms, weddings, devotionals and other contemplative occasions.
"The Making of Jacob’s Dream" was shown to a private audience of university donors in February 2007. Two years in the making, the film was developed in cooperation with Phillips Productions Inc. of Dallas, and traces the teamwork of sculptors, stone masons and other artisans who worked around the clock to prepare the sculpture for installation and dedication Sept. 9, 2006, at ACU's Centennial Birthday Celebration. They fought to overcome weather-, production- and engineering-related delays, and completed work just hours before the dedication ceremony. Maxwell was assisted by his artist wife, Jill, and local high school and ACU students in the sculpting work.
"When we look for a story for our television show, Texas Country Reporter, we look for stunning visuals and a person who is full of passion for what they are doing. We used the same criteria for the documentary, 'The Making of Jacob’s Dream.' The project was a dream come true for us since it is packed with both," said Bob Phillips, president of Phillips Productions Inc. "This was one of the top five projects our crews have ever had the pleasure to work on."
"I cannot stop thinking about Jacob’s Dream," said T. Cay Rowe, assistant vice president for university advancement at Texas State University. "My friends and I watched 'The Making of Jacob's Dream' when I was in Abilene this spring, then drove back to campus to see what it looked like at night. I watched the film again when I returned home. I have told lots of people about the sculpture, and in all seriousness, tell them it alone is worth a trip to Abilene. It is truly amazing, and the film is a work of art as well."
"We deeply appreciate the interest KTXS-TV has shown in airing this film about Jacob's Dream," said Dr. Michelle Morris, ACU vice president for university relations. "The sculpture site is a memorable addition to our campus and we believe it will become a source of pride to people in the City of Abilene as well."
The film's producer was Ron Hadfield, ACU assistant vice president for university communication, and the director/photographer/editor was Martin Perry, production manager at Phillips Productions Inc. Previous ACU films by the pair have won four national Telly Awards and an international silver medal from the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you are a member of the media who would like more information about this release, please contact ACU's Public Relations Office .
