In Lawrenceville, Gwinnett County's Bicentennial Plaza has welcomed the addition of two new sculptures that reflect the community's ethos and history. The county officials unveiled "Make A Wish" and "Vibrantly Connected" to the public on Monday, revealing not just the art pieces themselves but also the ideals they are meant to represent. Georgia artist David Landis is the visionary behind these installations.
"Make A Wish" is an interactive stainless-steel sculpture weighing 11,000 pounds. It invites visitors to immerse themselves in a forest of clovers, where they get the chance to stumble upon a four-leaf clover and cast their wishes. Meanwhile, "Vibrantly Connected" rises 12 feet tall at the trailhead and features intersecting ginkgo leaves that, create a reflective space showcasing the Gwinnett logo. The choice of the ginkgo leaf for its resilience and historic significance mirrors Gwinnett's diverse and long-standing community.
During the unveiling, Nicole Love Hendrickson, the Chairwoman of the county, underscored the impact of public art in a statement obtained by Gwinnett County's official website. "Public art enhances public spaces and connects, unifies and inspires communities," she said, adding, "The new sculptures reflect the spirit of Gwinnett, celebrating our vibrantly connected community and more than 200-year history."
Similarly, District 3 Commissioner Jasper Watkins III shared his insight during the ceremony, "This public art installation celebrates imagination, identity, and the experience of being part of something bigger. The sculptures give new life and meaning to spaces our residents already love," according to Gwinnett County's official website. The Bicentennial Plaza and Trailhead, situated in the heart of the county seat, was originally dedicated in 2018 commemorating the region's 200th anniversary. Landis' sculptures now stand as new icons for an area, rich in heritage and community pride.
