SRDC Welcomes Walker Hancock's "Air" sculpture to Schuylkill Banks

On Wednesday, April 29, SRDC joined Chief Cultural Officer Helen Haynes and Public Art Director Margot Berg of the Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy for the dedication of Walker Hancock’s “Air” sculpture on Schuylkill Banks. The newly-restored sculpture has been installed at the Cherry Street overlook, and is a beautiful and welcome addition to the Banks.

Originally commissioned by the City of Philadelphia’s Percent for Art Program, “Air” was cast in 1979 and installed in 1982 at the former Civic Center Building. This is the first time “Air” has been in public view since the demolition of the Civic Center in 1999. The late Walker Hancock was a PAFA professor and one of the Monuments Men during World War II. He was awarded the National Medal of Arts in 1989 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1990.

In attendance at the dedication were the figure model who posed for the sculpture in 1979 and Hancock’s daughter Deanie French, who spoke to her father’s legacy and love of teaching.

SRDC thanks the Office of Arts and Culture for bringing this beautiful artwork to the riverfront. Look out for “Air” next time you’re on the Banks!