Client: City of Eden Prairie, Rotary Clubs

Overview

Located within a 67 ft diameter roundabout in front of the Eden Prairie Community Center. The soaring bird and the supporting arc is made of Cor-ten steel. The prairie grass and supporting rail is made of stainless steel. The bird stands 26 feet above its base with a 7 foot wingspan. The kinetic “prairie grass” is weighted and balanced to sway with the wind.

Goals

The sculpture was commissioned by the Rotary Clubs of Eden Prairie with additional funding and support by the city of Eden Prairie. It is intended to recognize both institutions. The "prairie grass" and "soaring bird" themes are taken directly from the City of Eden Prairie logo. The sculpture also represents the Rotary International's 2013 theme of "Peace through Service". The paired blades of grass also represent people's arms and hands in the action of service, with the symbolic freedom/peace of a soaring bird as a result of their action/service.

Process

The selection committee chose my bird-and-prairie-grass concept but wanted the Rotary International theme expressed as well. A natural pairing of the grass blades and small changes made this work. The construction required working with structural engineers, fabricators, city managers and Rotary committee members.