1159 - The Send Off Sculpture by Sébastien Richer

Enjoy this Rochester Talking Trail artist as he shares the passion that went into this piece in front of you.

Welcome to The Send Off. My name is Sébastian Richer, the artist who collaborated with the students of Riverside Central Elementary School in Rochester, Minnesota. The sculpture depicts a young person symbolically taking flight by launching a paper airplane toward the library. The students' enthusiasm extended beyond the school, inspiring a ripple effect that reached the library and even the mayor’s office. His vibrant origami creation adorned the school with garlands. The beautiful works are now preserved within the base of The Send Off, fabricated in carbon steel.

The sculpture, poured in stainless steel, depicts a young figure stepping into the future, leaving footprints that symbolize the journey into adulthood. The internationally designed face is inclusive and non-ethnic, emphasizing universal representation.

I am a metalsmith trained in France. My work includes blacksmithing, fabrication, welding, and design artistry. I work from my shop in Dutch center. Another of my notable works, The Perfect Canoe, you can see looking west across the river from The Send Off sculpture. Have a good day.

Continue to explore all the incredible public art through the community of Rochester on our Talking Trail.