"Umbrellas Gracilas"

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"Umbrellas Gracilis"
Artists:  Jennifer Corio & Dave Frei of Vancouver, WA
Location:  4th & Kathleen Roundabout

In November, 2012, the Coeur d'Alene Arts Commission issued a Call to Artists for public art on the 4th & Kathleen Roundabout.  The roundabout is situated adjacent to the Coeur d'Alene High School soccer field and the edge of a wooded neighborhood.  No theme was suggested, allowing for open interpretation and creativity to make a lasting impression on residents and visitors.

Artists Jennifer Corio and Dave Frei were one of 36 artists/artist teams who submitted qualifications for the public art.  The Selection Committee, consisting of seven (7) voting members including arts professionals, artists, citizens, and a council member, narrowed the submissions to five finalists and requested that maquettes be prepared.  The maquettes were displayed for public comments at the Coeur d'Alene Public Library, and after recommendation of the Selection Committee, the Coeur d'Alene City Council approved the artwork on May 21, 2013.  The artwork was installed in November of 2013 and will be dedicated in the spring of 2014.  "Umbrellas Gracilis" stands 23 feet tall, and is constructed of 11 gauge aluminum, steel pipe, and stainless steel, with a powder coat finish.

"Umbrellas Gracilis" is a giant stylized rendition of a flowering umbrella plant.  It takes its name, tongue in cheek, from Latin plant nomenclature where gracilis means slender & graceful.  Each umbrella becomes a flower with its shaft and handle acting as the stamen.  Whimsical and vividly colored, this giant specimen flower will delight passersby.

We love using the umbrella as art form.  Besides being an iconic design form that most everyone can relate to, the use of umbrellas artfully in an outdoor setting has a way of lifting spirits - especially during grey rainy days when we need it the most." - Jennifer Corio & Dave Frei