Metro Adds New “Citizen” to Public Art Landscape

Metro Nashville’s newest public art installation will be the center of attention next week.

Called, “Citizen,” the art work consists of two 30-foot tall steel and glass structures that sit at opposite ends of Metro’s public square.

Sayre’s figures stand 30 ft. tall

Six intersecting planes of glass create the outline of a male and female torso – each one is supported by stainless steel column adorned with intricate lattice work.

North Carolina artist Thomas Sayre put the finishing touches on his figures last month. While using a hammer and wrench to tighten the large bolts to secure the sculptures to the ground, he explained why each figure prominently features one arm outstretched.

“They’re pointing, as in pointing the way, and so these guys point at each other, or the Mayor’s office, or the river. And they will move, via a wheel, by the human power of citizens.”

The figures are in place now and anyone can turn them. Sayre’s art installation is three years in the making. The public dedication ceremony for is June 10th.