Triumph of the Human Spirit facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Triumph of the Human Spirit |
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The sculpture at Foley Square in 2008
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| Artist | Lorenzo Pace |
| Year | 2000 |
| Type | Sculpture |
| Medium | Black granite |
| Location | New York City, New York, United States |
| 40°42′52″N 74°00′10″W / 40.71445°N 74.00289°W | |
Triumph of the Human Spirit is a large sculpture made of black granite. It was created in 2000 by artist Lorenzo Pace. You can find it in Manhattan's Foley Square in New York City.
This amazing artwork is about 50 feet (15 meters) tall and weighs 300 tons! It looks like an abstract (non-realistic) shape. The sculpture was inspired by the female antelope forms called Chiwara, which are important in the art of the Bambara people from West Africa.
The sculpture stands near a special place called the African Burial Ground. This was a burial site from the time when America was a colony. The base of the sculpture also reminds people of the "Middle Passage," which was the journey enslaved Africans were forced to take across the Atlantic Ocean. The city of New York asked for this artwork to be made through a program called "Percent for Art."
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What is the Triumph of the Human Spirit?
The Triumph of the Human Spirit is a powerful piece of public art. It was designed to honor the strength and survival of people. The sculpture's tall, reaching shape suggests hope and overcoming challenges. It helps us remember important parts of history.
Who is Lorenzo Pace?
Lorenzo Pace is the artist who created this sculpture. He is known for his works that explore African-American history and culture. Pace often uses symbols and stories from his own heritage in his art. He wants his art to help people learn about the past and feel inspired.
What Does the Sculpture Mean?
This sculpture has deep meanings. It connects to several important historical ideas. The artwork helps us remember difficult times and celebrate the strength of the human spirit.
Remembering the African Burial Ground
The sculpture is placed very close to the African Burial Ground. This site was discovered in 1991 during construction in New York City. It turned out to be a burial ground for over 15,000 free and enslaved Africans who lived in New York during the 17th and 18th centuries. This discovery was very important because it showed how much African people contributed to the early history of New York. The sculpture helps to honor those buried there and their legacy.
The Middle Passage Connection
The base of the sculpture is designed to look like the bottom of a ship. This is a reference to the "Middle Passage." This was the terrible journey that millions of enslaved Africans were forced to take across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas. Many people died during this journey. The sculpture's design helps us remember the suffering and resilience of those who endured this experience.
Chiwara and Bambaran Art
The main shape of the sculpture is inspired by "Chiwara" figures. These are traditional art forms from the Bambara people of Mali, West Africa. Chiwara figures often show antelopes and are used in farming rituals. They represent hard work, courage, and the connection between humans and nature. By using these forms, Lorenzo Pace connects the sculpture to African heritage and the idea of growth and new beginnings.
How Was It Made?
The Triumph of the Human Spirit is made from black granite. Granite is a very strong and durable stone. The sculpture was created as part of New York City's "Percent for Art" program. This program sets aside a small percentage of the money from city construction projects to create public art. This helps bring art into public spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Where Can You Find It?
The sculpture is located in Foley Square in Manhattan, New York City. Foley Square is a public park and plaza in the Civic Center neighborhood. It is surrounded by many important government buildings, like courthouses. This location makes the sculpture easily visible to many people every day.
