Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/157038
Sarasota News Leader August 23, 2013 Page 27 roundabouts, Warner suggests smaller-scale sculptures in the middle of roundabouts in Sarasota's downtown core, such as the new Main Street and Orange Avenue roundabout planned for construction in 2014. The Public Art Committee liked the concept, voting 5-0 to convey its support to the City Commission and lead discussions in the effort to build momentum for the initiative. On Monday, Aug. 19, the city commissioners also supported the project, moving forward the initial concept of center island sculptures as part of the planning process for the new, multi-lane roundabouts on U.S. 41. Some in the local arts community have also vocally backed the project. Artist Virginia Hoffman told commissioners that other cities offer driving tour directions for public art; she envisions that happening in Sarasota if sculptures are placed in the roundabouts. Roundabout art can range from modern, as shown in Federal Way, WA, to monumental. Image courtesy of the City of Sarasota "I believe the will does exist to do something like this in Sarasota," Hoffman added. Public Art Committee member George Haborak called the roundabout sculptures a "tremendous idea." Haborak even suggested the possibility of relocating Complexus — the giant modern red sculpture looming beside U.S. 41 at the Gulfstream Avenue intersection — to a visible new home in the center of one of the roundabouts. "This is a rare opportunity to make a statement about our community," said Public Art Committee Chairwoman Elizabeth Van Riper. Committee member Trulee Jameson said she would like to see a comprehensive plan for all 10 U.S. 41 roundabouts. Sarasota roundabout advocate Rod Warner says roundabout icons, such as the Musica sculpture on Music Row in Nashville, TN, brand a community. Image courtesy City of Sarasota