TRIUMPH

The San Jose Police Athletic League has a long history of working with youth in a variety of sports. Their commitment to the community is evidenced by the investments they've made in their programs. It was this kind of commitment and care on the part of P.A.L.--for mentorship, for healthy competition, and for the community--that I wanted to highlight in the art project for their new facility.

I often use historic images in my public projects because they have a way of both connecting us to our past and suggesting sense of continuity and traditional values. This project is based on an historic photograph from the P.A.L. collection of a joyful, skinny young boy with over-sized gloves, raised over his head in triumph. The sculpture is cut from 1/2" aluminum sheet, creating a figurative silhouette with the text, "P.A.L." cut from the chest area. Twelve feet tall, the piece "floats" off the front wall, giving it depth and casting a shadow on the building.

The sign/sculpture embodies the idea of youthful competition and the exhilaration and triumph of winning. It is meant to be graphic and colorful, reflecting the values and goals of the Police Athletic League and the sports programs they promote.

Triumph, 2004, Permanent public art project, Police Athletic League Boxing Facility, San Jose, CA; Commissioned by the city of San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs; Anodized aluminum sign/sculpture; 12' x 6'; Budget: $15,000.