Alice Aycock's artwork is related to human flight, astrophysics and, some might say, aliens. Shaped like two giant trumpet bells facing away from each other and attached in the middle like a double-sided cornucopia, the artwork is fabricated like an airplane - an armature wrapped in an aluminum skin. Both bell shapes project a soft light and three neon orange zigzags emulate radio signals or light waves. As the artist describes, "The horn/tunnel element is symmetrical from both sides; each opening 20' in diameter. The sculpture evokes the spaces created by wind tunnels, which are used to test the aerodynamics of airplane designs. It also suggests future travel through wormholes or time machines imagined in science fiction as well as the astrophysics illustrations of Stephen Hawking. The sculpture has an architectural scale that relates to the human body. From a distance the interior space draws the spectator in and gives the long term parking area a strong focus. The sculpture also suggests a device that could broadcast information from and out into outer space. The neon antennas are designed as a vertical counterpoint to the curvature of the tunnel. They also mark the spot and suggest that energy is radiating out into and down through the sculpture."
In addition to its legislated responsibility for approving all encroachments onto city property, the primary role of the Municipal Art Commission is to oversee the administration of the Kansas City One Percent for Art Program. Through the One Percent for Art Program, the mission of the Municipal Art Commission is to serve as a catalyst for artistic growth and aesthetic excellence in our communities, and in doing so, enhance the vitality of Kansas City and enrich the lives of its citizens. www.kcmo.org/CKCMO/Depts/GeneralServices/Facility/MunicipalArtCommission/index.htm
