Artist's Intent

The artist represented Judge Edgecomb rising out of rock to symbolize his reputation as a man of deep integrity based upon the fundamental and timeless principles of freedom and equality for all. He is holding a book of Law, the foundation upon which these ideals rest.

" I believe that public art should be accessible and approachable - that it should invite people into a relationship with the work of art. At the same time, believe that public art should challenge viewers to think about topics of universal importance. As approach the twilight of my career it becomes more and more important to me each year to create expressions of appreciation for the "hero's" of our time. I am very grateful for the opportunity given me to do that each time."

About the Artist:

Harrison Covington is a nationally recognized painter, sculptor and art educator. His work is included in major public and private collections throughout the country. He received a Guggenheim Fellowship and is both Professor Emeritus and Dean Emeritus at the University of South Florida. He was the founding chairman of the USF Department of Art. Lieutenant Colonel Covington was a fighter pilot with combat service during World War II. He and his wife Jane have been active members of Hillsborough County for many years.

The Process:

The artist began by shaping a clay model using photographs of the judge. Judge Edgecomb's daughter Allison graciously posed as well to get the likeness. The clay model was then delivered to the foundry and used to make a plaster mold into which wax was poured. resulting wax impression was encased in a ceramic mold which can withstand the intense heat of the casting process. The heated wax was poured out of the mold and molten bronze was poured into the resulting empty space. This is known as the "lost wax method" of casting. After the bronze cooled it was cleaned, polished and treated with chemicals to create the desired patina for color and given a protective coat of wax to seal it.