The majestic bronze statue outside the St. Louis Art Museum is an iconic symbol of the city. The sculpture, titled “The Meeting of Time and Memory,” was created by artist Linda Howard in 1997. It stands at the center of a large plaza just outside the museum’s main entrance.
The statue depicts three figures that are meant to represent different aspects of memory and time. In the center stands a woman with her arms outstretched towards an old man on her left and a young boy on her right. The woman is gazing at the old man who holds a staff in one hand and a globe in the other, while the young boy holds a book.
According to Howard, each figure represents different aspects of memory and time: Man represents our pasts, Woman our present, and Boy our future. The theme of this sculpture is that by understanding our pasts, we can better understand ourselves today and prepare for our future.
The bold composition of this piece combined with its intricate details make it one of St. Louis’ most recognizable monuments. The figures stand tall atop a granite base inscribed with words from William Faulkner’s Nobel Prize acceptance speech: “By his courage he endures; by his foresight he shall build better than he knows; valiantly he combines past and future.”
The Meeting of Time and Memory serves as an important reminder for St. Louisans to look back on their pasts, remain present in their present moments, and look forward to their futures.
Overall, it is clear why this stunning sculpture has become such an important part of the city’s identity: its powerful message resonates with people from all walks of life.
Conclusion: What Is The Statue Outside The St Louis Art Museum?
The Statue outside the St Louis Art Museum is a bronze sculpture created by artist Linda Howard in 1997 titled “The Meeting of Time and Memory” which depicts three figures representing different aspects of memory and time – Man representing our pasts, Woman our present, Boy our future – atop a granite base inscribed with words from William Faulkner’s Nobel Prize acceptance speech.