Picking up from my last article on commemorative sculpture, I want to examine the role that public sculpture plays as a catalyst in building commerce. In just about any major city, one can find outdoor or public sculpture. If you are a tourist, these sculptures provide information, such as history of the town, people of notable importance or significant events that happened in the region. In an instance of viewing these sculptures, the viewer has a snap-shot impression of the "lay of the land" and of the site they are visiting. Further curiosity, of the significance of these sculptures, may inspire the viewer to go online and run a Google search to learn more. Or to visit the local museum.
Usually embedded in the "thought" behind commemorative sculpture is the goal of honoring a specific period of time or a time of some historical significance. We can easily grasp the significance of the Hawaiian Monarchy when viewing the commemorative sculpture of King Kalakaua in Waikiki. This beautiful sculpture plays a contributing role in bringing commerce to Hawaii, while at the same time sparking a curious interest in who the man was and what era he lived in. Imagine that site in Waikiki without the sculpture. Imagine that there was a plaque in its place that spoke about King Kalakaua. Imagine if you would even notice it! The public sculpture at the entrance to Waikiki communicates a vivid fact of time and history that translates more in its visual impact than reading a signpost.
Not only has the viewer gained a new level of knowledge, but the community at large has benefited. Public sculpture often acts too as a focal point for discovery. "Let's meet at the Duka Kahanamoku statue and walk up the beach and window shop." The effect of sculpture on commerce is both subtle and obvious. The sculpture of Israel Kamakawiwo'ole is another example of sculpture that acts as a point of interest to visitors and to the local community. Tourist travel to the Wai'anae site to view the sculpture of the famed musician. Locals continue to remember the legacy of IZ by honoring him with leis. Leis can be found around IZ's neck each and every day.
Commemorative sculpture acts as a vehicle to celebrate multiple perspectives. By this, I mean that no two people will view sculpture the same way. Reality is based upon personal perception. The emotional impact that sculpture has on the viewer will directly depend on the viewer's level of interest, curiosity, and intention. For example, a tourist will be coming from a place of curiosity about what the sculpture means in its setting, versus a local who views sculpture perhaps as a means of identity or remembrance. Two perspectives can often yield different experiences, all the while it is the same sculpture...a means to memorialize people, places and history.
In clay, a commemorative sculpture in honor of the men and women of the Hokule'a.
