February 27, 2024 – Santa Fe College is welcoming a new addition to the Northwest Campus. Foundation work is underway in the Oak Grove for “La Tour,” a sculpture from the artist John Henry. “La Tour” is meant to stand as a centerpiece on the Northwest Campus and help spark an interest in the arts.
Henry was known for large-scale welded steel sculptures. His work has been seen around the world. Locally, he has two other well-known pieces – “Big Max,” located in front of the University of Florida’s Harn Museum of Art, and “Alachua,” often referred to as the “French fries” sculpture outside UF’s Marston Science Library. Henry died in 2022, leaving behind a collection that has made its mark on landscapes everywhere.
Santa Fe College President Paul Broadie II, Ph.D., values the arts as essential to a comprehensive college experience. He has elevated the prominence of art at Santa Fe College through initiatives such as expanding art exhibits, hosting the Spring Arts Festival at the Northwest Campus, and adding new art installations at Blount Hall. The college is also developing plans for an art museum in downtown Gainesville in the upcoming years.
“La Tour” is expected to arrive on March 27 with the actual installation beginning March 28.