“Human One” by Troy Smith is a striking contemporary sculpture in the Art St. Urban Sculpture Park in Switzerland, situated at the crossroads of four major cities: Basel, Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne. This modern masterpiece is adjacent to the historic Saint Urban Monastery, founded in 1194 by Cistercian monks. The park is a serene landscape with numerous renowned sculptures, making it an ideal setting for “Human One.”
The sculpture is made entirely from mirror-polished stainless steel and stands an impressive 10 feet (280 cm) tall. Weighing around 1000 pounds, “Human One” has a commanding presence in the park. Its polished reflective surface creates an interplay between the artwork and its natural surroundings, allowing viewers to see themselves and the environment mirrored in its sleek, angular surfaces.
“Human One” features a form that incorporates four arms, four legs, and a single body, symbolizing a unified entity that reaches out to all four corners of the globe. This design represents the interconnectedness of humanity and the Earth. The sculpture’s reflective surfaces seem to metaphorically reach out to embrace the entire planet, encouraging viewers to contemplate humanity’s role in shaping the future of the Earth.
The overarching theme of “Human One” touches on the notion of a singular, collective human identity and the responsibility that comes with it. The sculpture asks profound questions: Do we have the ability to make Earth a better place? Can we become a better human race? The artist expresses hope in humanity’s potential, emphasizing that we have only one planet and that our collective future depends on how well we can share and care for our home.
With its sharp lines, reflective surfaces, and symbolic design, “Human One” is a visually arresting and conceptually deep piece of art that encourages viewers to engage with the sculpture and its more significant ideas.
MATERIALS | Stainless Steel |
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DIMENSIONS | Height: 131 in (333 cm) |