Rockford's "Symbol," by internationally celebrated artist Alexander Liberman, soars in Sinnissippi Park along the east bank of the Rock River inspiring all who drive, bike, or walk by. This exciting piece of art is now available in a miniature 2-D metal "replica" which is not only a great souvenir, but can be used as a bookend, votive stand, or expressive decorative object.
The small-scaled "Symbol", which also comes as an ornament, was designed by J.R. Kortman along with artist Ben Pettee who manufactured each piece in his North Main Street studio here in Rockford. The large "bookend" version is $20 and the small "voitve" one is $10. Our store window features these sweet little "Symbols" with an original maquette which was created by Mr. Liberman and sold as a fundraiser for the this world class sculpture. The maqeutte is on loan to J.R. Kortman courtesy of Roland & Louise Poska.
Probably the most influential architect of the last century was Frank Lloyd Wright. J. R. Kortman celebrates his great design genius with a range of products from pottery to neck ties. A replica of "Flower in the Crannied Wall" statue designed by Wright and Richard Bock in 1902 for the Susan Lawrence Dana House in Springfield, Illinois is availble for $125. The distinctive pottery is made right here in Illinois at the Haeger Pottery Company in East Dundee.
Lego fans will find the "Falling Water" and Guggenheim Museum kits both challenging and rewarding. And a "Concretus" paperweight ($32) will add a sophisticated accent to any desk top or coffee table. J.R. Kortman Center for Design...always fascinating.
