Blue Angel is one of Ron Baird’s earlier works, taking from 1979 to 1984 to complete. It is the second of Baird’s works to join the sculpture walk – the first being Nutum (acquired in 1980). This piece represents the early part of Baird’s career, which was marked by his ambitious process of welding steel by hand and creating large solid abstracted forms.

The work is deliberately abstract. Despite its name, viewers may see different things within its shape. Interpretations range from a bird, anchor, plowshare and more.

“My challenge is to create works that are aesthetically complex yet visually simple, inviting the viewers to find their own magic and sense of existence in their reactions. I’m inspired not only by nature, but also by the archetypes known to us all. How the designs are interpreted will differ because of our own unique life experiences, but the themes are universal.” – Ron Baird