news-record.com

Artist Steven Bennett’s towering bronze and marble statues catch the eye of drivers who pass his Metropolitan Galleries along Business 85.

Now, one has caught the eye of California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

While on a fundraising trip, the governor spotted one of Bennett’s bronze grizzly bears in an art gallery in Aspen, Colo., and bought it for an undisclosed price — with his own money.

On Tuesday, the 800-pound grizzly bear — the California state animal — found a new home in the hall outside Schwarzenegger’s office in Sacramento.

An ecstatic Bennett found himself receiving calls from news media nationwide.

“He is one of my favorite actors besides Mr. (Sylvester) Stallone,” said Bennett, just back from overseas to prepare for the upcoming High Point Market.

Bennett, 57, a New York native who lives in Greensboro, designs marble and cast-bronze statues of animals, children, mythical figures and fountains.

He makes them in factories in countries such as China and Thailand, then ships them to galleries in Europe and the United States, such as the one in Aspen.

He also makes limited edition and commissioned works.

They fill Metropolitan Galleries’ warehouse and line its fence along Business 85, just south of Kivett Drive.

Although he hasn’t spoken directly to Schwarzenegger, Bennett wants to thank him and send a message.

“I would be happy to make him anything he likes.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Contact Dawn DeCwikiel-Kane at 373-5204 or dawn.kane@news-record.com