Lakeland Pays Tribute To Linemen With Public Art

LAKELAND, FL -- The city of Lakeland invites residents to attend the unveiling of a public art piece produced by Platform Art Inc. on Friday, June 29 at 11:30 a.m. in front of the Lakeland Electric Building, 510 E. Lemon St.

The Lakeland High School Color Guard and Drum Corp will begin the ceremony and celebration.

The sculpture recognizes electric lineman as first-responders and national heroes during times of natural and accidental disasters. Tribute to Linemen was inspired by Tracy Moore, a resident who advocates nationally for lineman safety. The lineman sculpture serves as a public, visual and permanent representation of the hard work that linemen do to help ensure the community’s quality of life.

Nationally recognized artist Becky Ault with Art Research Enterprises Inc. was commissioned to produce the sculpture in solid stainless steel. The art is based on a concept designed by three high school students in Polk County. Platform Art hosted a design competition for schools in the Lakeland Electric service area. Entries were judged and one design was selected that was modified and fabricated full size in stainless steel and bronze.

Platform Art is entering the public-campaign phase for fundraising efforts inviting individuals to contribute to the piece of art. Leadership gifts will be acknowledged at the unveiling.

Platform Art received major gift funding from the State of Florida, National Endowment for the Arts, UWUA, GiveWell Community Foundation and the city of Lakeland in support of public art. Individuals and all donors receive name recognition at the sculpture site in perpetuity. Platform Art will be adding related recognition and celebratory events throughout 2018.

Support efforts bring attention to the important, critical work of the electric industry and linemen as first-responders. Contributions can be made by check to Platform Art Inc., 120 E Pine St. #3, Lakeland, FL 33801; or online via Qgiv.

Image via Platform Art