‘Luminaria’ by international artist Gordon Huether unveiled in Albuquerque in honor of victims of violence

The title Luminaria refers to an important tradition in New Mexico: brown paper bags with cut-out patterns, weighted down by sand and lit from the inside by candles. The work’s three sculptures, 7 feet, 8 feet, and 9 feet high, were inspired by the shape of a barrel cactus and feature eight long “petals” that start at the base and curve up to connect at the top . Three seat components offer space for contemplation and reflection.

“It is so important that the lives of victims who have been cut too short and far too soon are thought of in a thoughtful and empathetic way, with a space that expresses love and honor for everyone to enjoy for a moment of rest or Commemoration is coming, “said Hüther. a Napa, California-based specialist in large format public art. Huether’s memorials include: In honor of the fallen in Oklahoma City and the Napa 9/11 Memorial and upcoming installations like End of Watch at the San Jose (CA) Police Department, the Sallisaw Veterans Memorial in Sallisaw, OK, and the monument of the eternal flame in Atlanta, GA.

“New Mexico Arts is honored to have made such an important and moving project possible,” said Michelle Laflamme children, CEO of New Mexico Arts. “Public art can be more than just something beautiful. It can stimulate conversation on difficult topics, point out history or culture important to a community, and it can be a place of remembrance and healing to things. ”

The artwork was created as a result of an appropriation by the. commissioned New Mexico Legislator honoring victims of gun violence. The selection committee consisted of members of the art community, government officials and family members of victims of gun violence. The piece was very well received by the committee as it depicts many objects that were left at the places of the deceased during memorial ceremonies or descansos. Heuther’s research into these traditions inspired him to create an unconventional, uplifting design with bright colors, regional folk art, and lighting from within the sculptures, “to cast light as a beacon of joy and love for all who suffer,” he explained.

The Luminaria installation at 520 Lomas Boulevard Northwest also highlights from Bernalillo County prestigious public art collection with over 500 works, including almost 100 by young artists, many of whom are aiming for artistic careers.

About Gordon Huether Studio
Gordon Huther is a Napa, California-based artist who specializes in large-scale, site-specific art installations. Outstanding among Hüther’s commissioned works are his seven large-format integrated installations for the Salt Lake City International airport, which will be completed in stages by 2024, and its inspiring memorials in Oklahoma City, Napa CA and other cities. www.gordonhuether.com.

CONTACT:
Ron Heckmann
510-652-5800
[email protected]

SOURCE Gordon Huether Studio