This sculpture, entitled "Sonora", was dedicated to Tucson on July 4th, 1991 and sits in front of the Tucson main library. It stands 25 feet high, is 43 feet wide and weighs 32,800 pounds. It was the first artwork in the city of Tucson's public art collection. A quote from the artist/sculptor, David Black - "Sonora is a monumental, pavilion sculpture which celebrates both the cultural and environmental uniqueness of its southwest desert setting and its important site on the new Main Library Plaza in the civic and business center of the City of Tucson. It is intended most importantly as an exciting landmark, visually and symbolically, but also as a friendly place for people to gather on this handsome plaza."
This sculpture was immediately controversial, largely because of its abstract design, bright red color, the non-resident status of the artist, and because public funds were used to fund it. Sonora has been referred to as a "burnt-orange cootie-bug," "a monstrosity they have pushed on the people of Tucson," and "the bright red, pagoda-like sculpture." (Arizona Daily Star)
It was sheer coincidence that I happened to be downtown and captured this photo, 16 years to the date, from when this was first dedicated to Tucson.
Categories: [Architecture] [Canon 30D]
Tags: arizona downtown library sonora tucson
Tweet