Sonora is a monumental steel sculpture which stands in front of the main library in the heart of downtown Tucson. Completed in 1991 by artist David Black, the piece is an example of proto-architecture that blends sculptural and architectural elements with abstract imagery from native cultures and the environment.
The pavilion-like roof and arches are designed for people to walk under and the curved benches are for sitting on.
Southwest Native American basket designs are found around the top of the structure.
The huge central ring of the sculpture rests on arrow-like columns.
Sonora also features abstractions of streams, wind and mountains from the desert landscape. The bright red color represents Tucson's mountains at sunset.I like this reflection of Sonora in the windows of the library. You can see books inside as well as buildings, cars and a red bicycle parked outside.
The sculpture reminds me of a dinosaur. It is a coincidence that the artwork is named Sonora because in 1995 the fossilized remains of a dinosaur were found in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona. The genus was named Sonorasaurus which means "Sonora lizard."Unfortunately, I was viewing Sonora when the sun wasn't right for casting shadows of the structure onto the ground. Next time I visit downtown, I'll look for Sonora's shadows.
For more Ruby Tuesday Posts featuring red things, visit Mary at Work of the Poet.
Interesting structure, pretty built too!
ReplyDeleteHere is my Ruby Tuesday entry.
I see a huge ruby insect. Or is it abstract? Is it geometric? The complexity and size make a mystery for our eyes...Big, bold and ruby are the descriptors here!
ReplyDeleteWhat a cool sculpture with so much meaning for its setting. I bet it casts interesting shadows!
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting sculpture and the colour is wonderful. Great shots.
ReplyDeleteThat sculpture is not to be missed! Very nice capture!
ReplyDeleteThats a great subject, perfect for this da!
ReplyDeleteI like the reflection photo too. I think it provides a sense of the place with bicycles, bookshop etc... fantastic sculpure (reminds me of Alexander Calder's art)
ReplyDeleteanother interesting and informative post, Diane. will look forward to Sonora's shadow. :)
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An interesting sculpture, reminds me a bit of the griffin you showed us earlier. I am amazed at what you have showed us about downtown Tucson. I never would have expected there to be so much to see.
ReplyDeleteJules and I usually avoid downtown areas but I think we miss a lot.
I see a deer walking. Very interesting sculpture. Another cool Tuscon thing.
ReplyDeleteyes, the 2nd photo looks like a dinosaur.:P interesting sculpture!
ReplyDeletethat is one fiery structure, i've never seen anything like it! it really stands out design and color wise, i cannot miss such beauty even in the middle of a bustling metropolis!
ReplyDeleteeng
Now this one bears thinking about Diane. I am not sure if I like it or not. Maybe bacause I like warmer things like wood? :)
ReplyDeleteGreat RT post! Yes, it is an interesting structure.
ReplyDeletemy RT entry is here.
What an interesting structure, and great information! The last picture is awesome, Diane!
ReplyDeleteThat is a pretty interesting structure. To me, it resembles an animal of some sort...maybe a dragon.
ReplyDeletewow thanks for sharing! that really looks interesting one :)
ReplyDeleteu may view mine if u have time
an interesting sculpture and i really like the informative post about it. my RT is up too.
ReplyDeleteGreat sculpture and great color, too. This is a good example of something aesthetic and useful. Quite impressive. Such a domineering piece.
ReplyDeleteGreat sculpture. I would love to see the shadows too!
ReplyDeleteIt looks different with different view points and different types of imagination.It have a dinosaur like giant structure.
ReplyDeleteThis is an interesting modern art, especially in the windows of the library.
ReplyDeleteIt is a wonderful sculpture and I love the color red but I'm glad it doesn't crawl...
ReplyDeleteInteresting post. next time i visit I'll have to check it out. have a great Ruby Day
ReplyDeleteAmazing - wish I could see this in reality too, it must have a real presence to stand near and under!
ReplyDeleteI can see we're due for another trip to Tucson next year. We very seldom make it to the downtown area; that's going to have to change! LOL!
ReplyDeleteReally interesting design, eye catching. Must be nice to sit on the bench and enjoy the view.
ReplyDeleteWow! So cool1 I super love this red steel sculpture.
ReplyDeleteIt's like a playground to me in midst of the chaos city.
Thank you for sharing Diane and I really love the reflection of Sonora in the window of the library. I am imagining myself reading while indulging the super cute view from here.
What to do, can't be here....just use my imagination!
Weird looking but creative structure :)
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