These images show a sketch of “Gavin-Divergence,” a sculpture by Jason Myers, and the corner of Westfield Boulevard and College Avenue where the sculpture will be installed. (Sketch provided by Dittoe Public Relations; IBJ photo/Dave Lindquist)
A prominent intersection in Broad Ripple will be home to a 30-foot-tall public art installation envisioned as “an illuminated, watchful guardian” for the cultural district.
Multiple entities, including the Birge Family Foundation, Broad Ripple Village Association, Indy Art Center and The Penrod Society, announced plans for the sculpture Monday.
Logansport native Jason Myers created the artwork, adorned with LED lighting and titled “Gavin-Divergence.” The sculpture will replace a metal Broad Ripple Village Association sign at the northwest corner of Westfield Boulevard and College Avenue.
Although no specific date is scheduled for placement of the sculpture, installation will happen before the end of the year, a spokesperson said.
A donation by the Birge Family Foundation will fund “Gavin-Divergence.” Indy Art Center will assume ownership of the sculpture and maintain it.
Taggart Birge, founder of the Birge Family Foundation, said the sculpture represents Broad Ripple’s commitment to the arts.
“It’s inspiring to see how this project has brought together local businesses, residents and organizations to create something that will enrich this neighborhood for years to come,” Birge, CEO of Cornerstone Cos. and Birge & Held, said in a written statement. “I am confident this is just the start of something very special for Broad Ripple.”
Birge will be honored on Aug. 5 as philanthropist of the year at IBJ’s Nonprofit Excellence Awards.
Myers made “Gavin-Divergence” using metal, recycled scrap steel and standard building materials. According to the Monday’s announcement, the sculpture’s skeletal design “mirrors the interconnectedness of Broad Ripple’s people, highlighting the collective efforts that shape its character.”
The sculpture is part of Myers’ “Gavin” series of figurative works. A 60-foot-tall sculpture titled “Trials of Gavin” was exhibited as part of the 2018 edition of the Lowlands music festival in the Netherlands.
Three to five additional pieces of public art by multiple artists are planned for Broad Ripple. All are expected to be funded by private donations, according to Monday’s announcement.
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