Aquileans

Aquileans. . , Aquileans is a series of sculptures for the Juneau Waterfront whose origins are found in the archetypes of the Alaskan landscape. Its main images reside within two ecological characters whose spirits have long guided the people of this land. "Aquila," the Latin for eagle, and "Cetacean," an order of marine animals including the whale, join form to create Aquileans. The images of a whale fluke breaking the surface of the water or an eagle soaring above are iconic images of Alaska. The name Aquileans is meant to embody the sea and the sky. The sculpture seeks a new form from these images that resides with confidence along the waterfront with its stunning views. The "bollards" that were formerly used to moor cruise ships serve as foundations for the sculptures, thus bringing the nautical architecture of the Port of Juneau into dialogue with the sculptures. Set against the landscape of mountains and ocean, the sculptures establish a new promenade for the citizens of Juneau and a welcoming feature to visitors by sea. The sculptures provide a recognizable character for the waterfront and bring a contemporary ambiance to the social and economic life of Juneau. The Aquileans promenade forms a significant urban edge to the downtown where Alaska's Capital City meets the water., Artist: Cliff Garten Studio , Fabrication: Metal Arts Foundry , Photo: Michael Penn