David Griggs

You Might Recognize:

"Dual Meridian", Denver International Airport 

"Seven Sisters", Pepsi Center Light Rail Station, Denver 

"Platte Valley Time Vanes", Park Ave. Viaduct, Denver

Public Art Average Success Rate:

About 33%

Rejected Project Proposal

Proposed Project Location:

A new public library in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Concept:

This was a proposal for the Central Library in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The piece represents the intellectual stimulation that Libraries offer. The design has a playful rhythm and connective forms that relate to the engaged minds and imaginations of Library users. The design began with a vision of “cognitive connections” – those dendrites, axons and neurons that create the thought process. These abstract cognitive forms are arranged in playful sequences that suggest thinking and brainstorming - a vision of a stimulated mind.

Libraries engage people’s minds, beg questions, suggest connections, and offer insight. The design for the sculpture presents a vision for these effects. While acknowledging the important role of libraries in cities like Cedar Rapids, the design celebrates the mindful stimulation that all Libraries have to offer. Intended to be illuminated from within, the piece suggests thought patterns, active minds, and the “light” of ideas.

"I Regret to Inform You..." Artist Response

Of course I was disappointed. But I had gotten used to rejection - it's the usual result. I thought that this was a strong, appropriate design for this situation, and that it worked well with the architecture. So this one was more disappointing than most. I was motivated to find other opportunities to express similar ideas. This rejection didn't change anything about my art practice. It just further confirmed that public art competitions are - mostly - a numbers game.

Additional Thoughts:

The sting of rejection was somewhat lessened by finding out who won the project. The project was awarded to Albert Paley - a "name" artist with a longstanding national reputation. While I don't agree with selections based on the artist's reputation, or anything else besides "design merit", it happens often - and Paley is a terrific artist.