02.15.10

02.15.10, originally uploaded by colemama.

This Fire Fighter Gator is one of many gator sculptures adorning the streets of Naples - this one located, appropriately, in front of the City of Naples Fire Department. They are the result of Gators Galore, a 2001-02 event where artists were solicited to create their own vision on a standard alligator template. (Interesting model to consider for education - we provide the template and let students create their own vision from that...of course, there's still that sticky issue of assessment!) Their creations were then auctioned off to raise money for local groups.

A great example of art in public places, this one is even more compelling as it honors and remembers those who died September 11th. It is a reflective piece that takes you back to that horrific day where loss of life - primarily innocent victims - also brought loss of 'life as we knew it'. Our tenuous relationship with an all-important value of freedom in America is tested every day, but this day provided yet another facet. 8th Ave & 8th St S, Naples, FL