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C. Stea, CWA Sculptor, Does Bas-Relief on Wall Outside Dr. Alpern's Office

June 5, 1935

Under the sponsorship of the C.W.A., a bas relief by the sculptor, Caesar Stea, has recently been placed in the main corridor outside Dr. Alpern's office. The sculpture is entitled "Education," symbolized by a group of three youthful figures. The installation of the relief has occasioned much discussion, bewilderment, and even laughter for many of the students and faculty have been greatly puzzled by it.

In an effort to get the reactions of the students, the members of two Advanced Art Appreciation classes were asked to write, without any previous discussion, what the sculpture expressed to them. The results were varied but all the students agreed that it was a work of art and that it owes much of its beauty and dignity to its extreme simplicity.

One boy writes: "I believe the sculpture wanted to make something that would represent the student and his importance in man's development. The figures seem to be representative of his cultural advancement. It is as if they were put there to remind us that we are also students, and that we are looked up to as being the ones who will lead the rest of the people to a better understanding and appreciation of fine values and thus show them how their lives can be made happier and more worthwhile."

Quite a different viewpoint is given by a girl who writes: "The sculpture tried to show the steps whereby a person gains knowledge. The figure at the right seems to represent the first stage--the period of awakening, of curiosity. The center figure represents the second stage--the period when facts are interpreted and conclusions made. This is the time when knowledge is attained. The last figure, the one carrying a book, is wisdom which is the final stage. A person is wise when he knows how to use knowledge to the best advantage."

Another students says: "He (the sculptor), by his three characters portrays three necessities in a school career. The first symbolizes ability, intelligence which is signified by the books. The second, through the position of the hands, represents honesty and conviction. The third, by the clasped hands, expresses attentiveness and anxiety to derive all that she can out of what is to be taught."

Many students thought that the three figures were symbols of three different traits of character. The first suggested patience; the second virtue; and the third figure symbolizes truth.

Various students were impressed by:

". . . expression of the dignity education which is the epitome of the noble attributes of our present day civilization, and the inspiration and aspiration, of which education is the outgrowth."

". . . the suggestion of introspection in the eyes which is reminiscent of Oriental art."

". . . the strong lines suggestive of strength of character. There are no weak or unnecessary lines to lessen the effect."

". . . the unity of the three figures."

Mr. Stea himself has not put his conception in words but the forms of his sculpture have spoken eloquently to many observers.

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