You Won't Believe What Jason Myers' 'Gavin Divergence' Sculpture Reveals About Indianapolis!

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The vibrant community of Broad Ripple, Indianapolis, has a new landmark: a towering art installation titled ‘Gavin Divergence’, created by local contemporary artist Jason Myers. This impressive sculpture rises 33 feet on a three-foot base, weighs a staggering 6,000 pounds, and is composed of over 1,000 pieces of hand-welded steel. After eight months of meticulous work, Myers unveiled the piece, which features dynamic lighting that will change with the seasons and local events.

Reflecting on his artistic journey, Myers stated, “Of all the public pieces that I’ve done, this piece in Broad Ripple is probably the most important.” He has deep roots in the area, having begun his art career there 30 years ago. His work often engages with complex themes such as alienation, politics, and socioeconomic systems, demonstrating a multi-disciplinary approach that merges traditional artistic techniques with industrial materials and technology.

The name ‘Gavin Divergence’ pays homage to Broad Ripple’s history as Indianapolis’s first cultural hub, a place where diverse backgrounds and paths have converged and diverged over the years. Myers utilizes a style described as figurative abstraction, focusing on the human form while offering transparency in the building process, allowing viewers to witness how the artwork was created.

Despite initial controversy surrounding its placement, the sculpture has garnered positive feedback from the local community. The installation stands not only as a testament to Myers’ artistic vision but also as a celebration of the cultural significance of Broad Ripple, marking a meaningful contribution to the local art scene. “It’s more than just an artwork; it’s a beacon for the community,” expressed one local resident.

Myers has been a prominent figure in the international art scene for nearly three decades, with his work exhibited across the U.S. and abroad, including solo museum shows and monumental sculptures that captivate audiences. He possesses a unique ability to tackle pressing social issues through his art, making each piece a conversation starter.

The installation of ‘Gavin Divergence’ not only showcases Myers’ distinctive style but also spotlights Broad Ripple’s ongoing evolution as a cultural center. The piece is a reminder of the community’s rich artistic heritage while also looking forward to the diverse paths that lie ahead. As Myers puts it, art should challenge viewers and invite them to reflect on their own experiences and the world around them.

As the seasons change, ‘Gavin Divergence’ will transform alongside the community, adapting its lighting to reflect local events and celebrations. This interaction with its surroundings reinforces the idea that art is not static; it is a living entity that grows and evolves just like the community itself.

For residents and visitors alike, ‘Gavin Divergence’ stands as a powerful symbol of Broad Ripple’s identity and its commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural landscape. Its presence invites everyone to pause and reflect on the diverse stories that have shaped the area and those yet to come.