


Client: Yale University
Location: New Haven, CT, United States
Completion date: 2021
Project Team
Sculptor
Archie Held
Archie Held Studio
Collaborator
Ed Barlow
Self

Overview
The sculpture “Aspire” was commissioned for Yale University. It was given a place of honor facing Yale Law School. Made in bronze and standing 15’ tall, the sculpture was installed in 2021.
Goals
The sculpture is located near three important buildings, The Book and Snake Society, the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library and Yale Law School. Taking this into account I wanted to acknowledge the importance of books and the value of education. With this in mind I strived to create an inspiring and uplifting form.
Process
The sculpture had a large team behind it starting with a generous donor. I met and worked with landscape architects, engineers, contractors, alumni and the Vice Provost of the university. The talented team at my studio in California, art movers and installers all made this possible.