Springfield Standard

The public is invited to view a special summertime rotation of the Park Central Square sculpture, the Tumbler, at 7 p.m., Friday, June 21.

This quarterly event coincides with the eighth annual Tumble for SGF event, hosted by the Coffee Ethic from 6 – 10 p.m. The event aims to celebrate and increase awareness of the unique sculpture while raising money for a cause. This year, a portion of proceeds raised by the Coffee Ethic on June 21 will be donated to Better Block Springfield.

“The Tumbler sculpture is rotated by Public Works Street Operations crews every season which offers viewers a fresh perspective of the downtown icon,” says Public Works Assistant Director Eric Claussen. “Having the seasonal rotation of The Tumbler coincide with this community event is a win-win in our efforts to support public art and activate our public spaces.”

Created by sculptor Aris Demetrios, the Tumbler was installed on the square in 1971 and is regarded as Springfield's first piece of modern art. It was discovered in recent years that the sculpture was intended to be re-oriented, or “tumbled,” every season to create a new piece of 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.

For media inquiries, contact Communication Coordinator Kristen Milam at 573-819-3713 or [email protected].