Submitted by City of Carmel
The City of Carmel has begun preparing for the installation of a new sculpture at the roundabout at Main Street and Richland Avenue, as a new piece, titled “Taking Flight,” is added to Carmel’s growing public art collection.
The contract with STUDIOKCA was approved by the Carmel Redevelopment Commission in November 2023.
“What better way to highlight Carmel’s commitment to public art and education than with this sculpture?” Mayor Sue Finkam said. “It not only showcases two of our prominent educational landmarks but also creates a striking gateway to our Arts & Design District.”
The “Taking Flight” sculpture, crafted from steel, aluminum and LED with a reinforced concrete footing, stands approximately 20 feet tall and 12 feet in diameter. It depicts an upsweep of books taking flight, a fitting image given its intentional placement at the roundabout in front of the Carmel Public Library and Carmel High School. Artist Jason Klimoski explains that the sculpture “opens the concept to a portal which includes an endless range of learning materials and assets,” going beyond just the recognizable symbol of books.
To broaden the national and international scope of artists contributing to Carmel’s public art, a search was conducted in 2022 through a Request for Quotation process facilitated by commissioned art consultants, CODAworx. Out of 132 applications received from around the world, three finalists were selected to present to a committee. This committee included two city consulting advisors, along with city and library representatives.
Jason Klimoski, principal and co-founder of the award-winning architecture and design firm STUDIOKCA based in Brooklyn, N.Y., was chosen by the committee. His selection was not only due to his talent but also his clear understanding of this public space and the focus of the Carmel community. STUDIOKCA’s diverse portfolio includes residential, commercial, and cultural projects across numerous national and international locations.
The City of Carmel, Carmel Redevelopment Commission, and Carmel Clay Public Library will host a sculpture unveiling event at 10 a.m. Friday, July 11. The artist will be in attendance. More details about the unveiling will be announced soon.