In 2018, the City of Saint Petersburg, Florida commissioned a two-piece sculptural project to celebrate its new police department headquarters. As a local artist whose efforts and heart remain loyal to his city, Mark won the project and completed it in 2019.
The design for Gladiolus is based on the gladiolus flower, which in ancient times was worn by gladiators into battle. This was a perfect combination as a flower is generally associated as something beautiful and inviting, but is transformed into a strong presence. The gladiolus petals speak to the core values of the department: to protect with honor and integrity, while visitors gaze into the mirrored sphere on its interior, seeing themselves reflected as the community the department serves.
The 22-foot gladiolus blossom represents the role of the law enforcement in the community: its petals symbolize the police that protect with honor and integrity, while the mirrored sphere on its interior represents the community they serve.
Detail of Gladiolous
Gladiolus specs:
Medium: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 30'L x 15'W x 10'D
Weight: 10,000 pounds
The structure for each petal is a waffling technique, and presented unique fabrication and engineering challenges. Each petal is incapable of standing on its own, but when fastened together is capable of withstanding a Category 5 hurricane.
Behind the Scenes
There were unique challenges in creating the Gladiolus blossom. The petals started as 1:6 foam carvings that were 3D scanned and manipulated digitally to realize the form. MGA worked closely with the Saint Petersburg Police Department to design this piece as a testament to the city for years to come. The piece was designed while the department was under construction, so MGA had to work with a multitude of architects, construction managers, builders, and engineers to incorporate the sculptures with the rest of the building to be ready for the grand opening. At the end of the day, the piece was successful in embodying the values of the department and honoring the first responders.
Take a peek at the process of creating Gladiolus.