Client: The Art Advocacy Project
Location: Loveland, CO, United States
Completion date: 2018
Project Team
Artist
Joe Norman
Joe Norman Sculpture
Public Art Agent
Susan Ison
Director of Cultural Services, City of Loveland, CO
Overview
Sculpture reveals the words 'LOVE' or 'FEAR' depending on the viewpoint of the observer. 8' x 2' x 2', fabricated from powdercoated steel.
Goals
Originally, I was interested in using words as a way to demonstrate a transition from one idea to another: FEAR transforming into LOVE, AWAY transitioning into HOME, for example. After exploring this idea for the past year, I’ve found that a more appealing interpretation is that these concepts can exist together in the same person or society. Someone can have LOVE and FEAR at the same time, and I find that a very useful conversation.
Process
The Visual Arts Commission of Loveland runs the art-on-loan program for the city, and on a yearly basis chooses several large outdoor sculptural pieces to be placed along major walking thoroughfares. The artists are given a stipend and publicity through the city's marketing efforts, and receive the pieces back if they have not sold after the loan period. This year the Commission chose FEAR/LOVE as one of the sculptures.