World renowned sculptor Peter Lund-berg was in town this week to work on the creation of a monumental sculpture that will be dedicated to the Chattanooga heroes who recently gave their lives in the line of duty. When completed, the steel and concrete work of art will stand in Sculpture Fields at Montague Park as a permanent tribute to these courageous service members.
Lundberg began working on the sculpture Aug. 8. The sculpture will be raised in a public dedication beginning at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 1.
With a global reputation, Lundberg’s works are held in private, corporate, and government collections in Germany, Scandinavia, China, Australia, and the U.S. He has been a leader in the creation of sculpture parks in America.
“Peter Lundberg is a unique sculptor both in how he works and the materials he works with,” said John Henry, internationally renowned sculptor and founder of Sculpture Fields. “Watching him work in the park was an eye-opening experience.”
Lundberg assisted Henry in the 2000-2001 construction of Henry’s piece, “Tatlin’s Sentinel,” which stands at 101 feet tall.
“As a child, I enjoyed running around sculptures that loomed larger than life,” said Lundberg. “I didn’t know what the sculptures were, but I could understand their importance. Sculptures have always inspired me, and I believe children and adults alike can find hope and passion in them.”
“Peter’s sculpture will serve as a unique focal point for the sculpture park,” said William J. Overend, captain, U.S. Navy (retired) and Sculpture Fields board member. “It will be an everlasting tribute to the fine members of the United States Marine Corps and United States Navy.”
Sculpture Fields at Montague Park is a new city park being built on land donated 100 years ago by the Montague family. Currently in development, it will be open free to the public beginning weekends in November. The grand opening is scheduled for next spring.
For the tribute event, the public will be allowed inside the park to view the Lundberg sculpture.