Phoenix
Clarke Riedy - El Pasaje (The Passage)
1700 W Washington St, Phoenix (Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza)
Local artist Clarke Riedy has created an urgent, loving piece of art in El Pasaje (The Passage): Arizona Workers Memorial, located at Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza. This 1999 installation reminds us of those who have built this state over the years with their labor, while specifically honoring those who have lost their lives or been injured while working - a great reminder of our common heritage.
But I see even more in this piece. Riedy fills this work with multiple layers for the viewer to ponder. The concern on the parents’ faces for their infant, the way they are holding the child together, and the sheer size of the father’s upper body, all give the viewer confidence that the baby will be all right. The clothing of the parents indicate working-class people without a lot of extra assets, but their determination gives confidence for their future. Though the surface impression of El Pasaje (The Passage): Arizona Workers Memorial may be somewhat disturbing, I see the end result as being one of hope based in love and hard work.
El Pasaje (The Passage): Arizona Workers Memorial is part of the peaceful Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza, located at the Arizona State Capitol. You will find beautiful paths that lead by Riedy’s work, as well as the many other monuments and memorials on display.
Comments
Post a Comment