158 – Sonar Tide
Sonar Tide, designed by architect Ronald Bladen (1918-1988) who is considered a “father of minimalism” [New York Magazine]
A joint venture between the Junior League of Peoria and the Civic Center Authority, “sonar tide” was commissioned in 1983.
It is 51 foot 9 in long, 26 ft high, 4 ft wide and weighs 14 ton.
It also holds the distinction of being voted 2005’s #1 biggest Peoria eyesore by readers of the River City Times.
May 4th, 2007 at 9:16 pm
Sonar Tide sculpture at the Civic Center, with the City Hall shadow creeping into view.
January 1st, 2008 at 5:24 am
Peoria should be ashamed for branding Sonar Tide as an ” eyesore ” ! As a lifelong Peorian, I cannot deny about Our, far too often, provincial attitudes about art & culture. Is It any wonder that We’re not taken seriously by the cultural world?
Most Peorians, at least seem to, have forgotten the, original, sculptural proposal for the Civic Center…. Richard Serra’s (2), vertical, rusty slabs of cor-ten steel… dubbed ” the shaft ” by locals. Sonar Tide was, very briefly, a welcome option over the (Serra) proposal.
Unfortunately, Sonar Tide’s ” honeymoon ” wouldn’t last long. As It’s been derided and ridiculed, by locals, from It’s completion to the present. What a Shame! I imagine the, late, Ronald Bladen would have delighted to see the many children climbing onto the Sonar Tide’s curve or swoop.
Yes, I know that Art and Taste is subjective. And, Peoria has the right to accept or reject Whatever It feels is inappropriate or unwelcome. But, the 2005 vote underscores what I feared to be true…. That America’s, cultural, elite are right about Peoria. And, That isn’t Good!
I, personally, adore ” Sonar Tide ” and hope This community will eventually come to appreciate It like Chicago did It’s ” Picasso” !
January 3rd, 2008 at 7:24 pm
I don’t disagree. I love it too and was shocked when I learned that others don’t feel the same.