Client: Iowa State University

Overview

Monumental sculpture designed to commemorate the life of Jack Trice, one of the first African American college football players to play the game. Trice died from injuries he received during his first game with the ISU Cyclones. The sculpture contemplates the idea of strength, struggle and absence that coincide with Jack Trice’s legacy. The sculpture was installed for the centennial anniversary of Trice’s death. The central monument consists of a large scale, white volume which has been fractured and broken through by the visage of Jack Trice. The interior, three-dimensional silhouette is large enough to encourage the viewer to pass through and experience the visual complexity that represents breaking the imposing barrier. Special attention has been paid to the material’s color, shape and texture to reference the underlying conceptual intent. On the outside of the sculpture, appear bronze cleat castings, shown in Trice’s defensive player stride fading away from the field and reflecting on his absence. In addition, there are two benches split by Trice’s symbolic wake. Made from the same material as the sculpture, the benches encourage contemplation on the past, present and the future surrounding Trice’s struggle and legacy.

Goals

Commemorate the life of Jack Trice.
Encourage contemplation on the past, present and the future surrounding Trice’s struggle and legacy.