In Gratitude

In Gratitude was the second Percent for Art project to be initiated at a Columbia fire station. The bronze relief sculpture depicts a thankful citizenry joined together to express gratitude for the work of first responders. Background scenes show some of the history of Columbia’s Fire Department, including the 1892 fire at Academic Hall on the University of Missouri Quadrangle, of which only the columns now remain. Near the path going through the center of the panel stands a saluting figure intended to represent Columbia firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. The stone benches on either side of the sculpture invite passerby to stop for quiet reflection and provide an informal meeting place for neighbors.