FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE If we can’t see the Tumbler’s shadow after its spring rotation next week, does that mean we won’t have six more weeks of winter? Superintendent of Streets Ron Bailey isn’t sure, but he encourages interested citizens to come down to Park Central Square at 7:30 a.m., Tuesday March 17 to watch a Public Works crew rotate the Tumbler, Springfield’s first piece of modern art, for the spring season. No, the Tumbler won’t be painted green for St. Patrick’s Day, but you’re welcome to wear green if you like. About the Tumbler
Former Assistant Public Works Director Jonathan Gano learned the Tumbler’s origins (and its name) when he was doing research on Park Central Square a few years ago and tracked down sculptor Aris Demetrios in the process. Gano contacted Demetrios by e-mail. Within five minutes, the 83-year-old artist responded from an iPhone in Montecito, California. "I was shocked to get an answer so quickly. Not only did I find out the name of the piece was the Tumbler, but I also found out it was named that because it was supposed to be re-oriented every season, so in effect, you have a new piece of art," Gano said. "It inspired a lot of commentary, conversation and even a little bit of controversy when it arrived." The Tumbler was installed on the square in 1971 and is regarded as Springfield's first piece of modern art. Creation of the Tumbler was funded by an arts patron identified as "Mrs. Monroe Swyers," who reportedly donated $15,000. Demetrios said that barely covered the cost of steel to make it.