Public Art Reaction

          The sculpture titled “Fiorello H. LaGuardia” is conveniently on display in the cafeteria of the E building at LaGuardia Community College. Neil Estern created this sculpture in the image of New York’s past mayor, Fiorello LaGuardia. Completed in 1994, the sculpture displays a cheerful, husky LaGuardia in mid-stroll. LaGuardia’s mouth is wide open to give the impression of speech or whistling. His hands are close together, almost as if he were about to clap. The impression of LaGuardia is that he was a happy, active man. The sculpture seems to fit perfectly in the atmosphere of the college. The dining hall is a place where people sit down to eat their food, but it is also a place of thoroughfare for students passing through. Just as the students walk to class, so does LaGuardia. Students, whether sitting down for lunch or just passing through, often talk with their friends and classmates or on a cellphone. LaGuardia’s mouth mimics speech and appears to be in place with its surroundings. Although there are many images of LaGuardia scattered throughout campus, this piece seems to be hidden. Placed in an indent at the far wall, the statue is almost unnoticeable to someone walking through. Lighting does not make the statue shine or stand out against the red paint. Passerby seem to be more concerned with finding a seat or getting to class than peering into the face of the sculpture. However hidden this may be, the sculpture embodies human movement and communication in a place where both are present virtually any time of day. This piece appears to be a small copy of the original, which was placed in LaGuardia Gardens in Greenwich. Perhaps if the sculpture was moved into the outdoor area of the E building it would be a better fit. I believe the surrounding area is a detriment to the sculpture. Students and teachers acknowledge LaGuardia’s name every time they enter the building. Seeing a sculpture of him is nothing out of the ordinary in a place named after the man himself. Therefore, the attention given to the sculpture is less than what is deserved. This piece deserves to be placed in a more friendly location, such as a public park.

Neil Estern

“Fiorello H. LaGuardia”

Bronze

1994