Jose Bedia Jose Bedia

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Jose BediaARTIST CALL - Coral Gables Public Safety Building

Jose Bedia Jose Bedia

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Question GroupApplicant Name*

Jose Bedia

PROJECT TITLE* Janus Profiles Memorial Site

PROJECT DESCRIPTION* Please attach a detailed Proposal Description describing the Artist’s design intent including concept development, how it fulfills aspects of a memorial, and the relationship to the site.

This piece intends to pay respect to both the police and fire department simultaneously, by showing how they complement each other and their social function in the community. The representation of their union is symbolized by one large torso, who at the same time is looking in both directions (as a janus face) representing their dual functions as guardians. The left side half of the torso is meant to specifically highlight the police department, and this is subliminally suggested by the cut out image of a human figure (accompanied by a trained police dog) pointing towards a direction, alluding to a stance of vigilance or prevention. The direction the figure points to, also points to the star on the shoulder of the large half torso. This star could represent a star in the night, an emblem for the police, or the effect of a gunshot in a potential encounter. The right side half of the torso is meant to specifically honor the fire department. In this case, the human figure (also accompanied by a trained dog), is also in an attitude of vigilance or signaling a potential danger. However, in this case the shoulder of the figure has a cut out representation of a flame. In both sides, there is also a cutout portion which is meant to represent a pair of eyes. These eyes convert the separate sides into one unified large "face" of vigilance. The idea of having images within the torso cut out, not only lightens the actual metal structure, but it also allows for viewers to look through to the other side. Additionally these figures represent the internalization and deeply inlaid responsibilities of both sides within their respective torso. The way the torsos are displayed is meant to create a radial representation emerging from a center, and also to create a natural diorama which attracts viewers to the center. The proposal incorporates public seating with curved benches, so someone can sit in front of the memorial. The piece will be constructed from 1 inch solid steel sheets, which suggest strength, invulnerability, and permanence. Additionally this steel frame construction would add an added benefit of providing a natural protection to the entrance of the building.

The back of the janus torso, incorporates the figure of a waterbird (anhinga) a native bird of Florida, which is emerging from the edge of the water (the level of the ground), it also represents the phoenix bird and in the tail you can see the peaks of the flames from which it is rising. The profiles on either side of the phoenix allude to the fallen members of both departments and augments the idea of a memorial character for those who passed away during their service. In the unfortunate event that a member from either department should pass away, the concept of the piece allows for the addition of other profiles to commemorate future losses and sacrifices. The neck of the bird, which has a diagonal zig zag form, not only alludes to the long neck of the waterbird but it also alludes to the will to carry the souls of the fallen members to heaven. The large arch that shapes the wing in the back additionally encourages people to interact with the piece by crossing through it, as it was designed with the height of a normal person to be able to walk through it. The large arch can also be symbolized as the classic curved leaf of a palmetto, and the tail of the bird can also be interpreted

Jose Bedia Jose Bedia

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as the mangrove roots of South Florida. The bird in the back, is exactly in the middle of the janus torso, and if viewed from above it would be in a perfect equilateral triangular disposition, which also contributes to the visual and structural integrity of the piece.

MEDIUM* What materials are proposed for the artwork, including materials for attachment, if applicable?

One inch corten steel plates Concrete bench molds Poured Concrete for foundation