The piece, called "Requiem," was created by artist Erwin Binder in 1988 and resides in Johnny Carson Park on Riverside Drive between Buena Vista and Bob Hope Drive. The plaque states it is Burbank's tribute to great Americans, "The Defenders of the Constitution" Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow, funded by a collection of proud patriots assembled by Mr. Bob Hope and Mayor Michael Hastings. There is a plaque on the other side naming all the donors.
This evening I was able to capture the piece in truly amazing circumstances. The sun was shining on it perfectly and fortunately for me a gentlemen named Mel who frequents the park with his dog talked with me for a few moments about his appreciation for the sculpture. He wondered if it was controversial because it is abstract. As someone who works in and appreciates abstraction easily, it was interesting to consider the courage it might have taken for Burbank to accept an abstract work.
I think the ambiguous identity of the piece causes it to be as Mel mentioned, a piece that sparks conversation, and also contemplation. It is evocative. I highly recommend walking all the way around three dimensional pieces because different angles provide fresh insights and opportunities for revelation. My first thought, especially after reading the plaque was that it looked like giant tear drops. On the other side I saw victorious arms and strength. As the sun shone through the center I thought of the hope of a new day. Later I considered it could be a perpetual flame of remembrance, or a beacon, like leaving the light on for loved ones to find their way home.
I think the ambiguous identity of the piece causes it to be as Mel mentioned, a piece that sparks conversation, and also contemplation. It is evocative. I highly recommend walking all the way around three dimensional pieces because different angles provide fresh insights and opportunities for revelation. My first thought, especially after reading the plaque was that it looked like giant tear drops. On the other side I saw victorious arms and strength. As the sun shone through the center I thought of the hope of a new day. Later I considered it could be a perpetual flame of remembrance, or a beacon, like leaving the light on for loved ones to find their way home.
The art in public places website describes the bronze sculpture as an abstract expressionist flame. Yet all the thoughts and feelings that came to my mind and yours are equally valid. That is the glorious thing about art appreciation, each person's opinion is correct! Plus, we can all expand and grow through the conversations art inspires.
RSS Feed