A new art piece was erected in front of the PAHB over the weekend
New penis-shaped sculptures were erected in front of the Performing Arts and Humanities Building last weekend. UMBC students came out in support of the artistic endeavor.
Standing tall at the top of UMBC’s campus, the Performing Arts and Humanities Building underwent exciting changes last weekend. The archways that once welcomed students into the building were replaced with phallic sculptures of the same height. A team of five men erected the new art installation in only four hours.
The sudden change came about after an outcry from students for art pieces that were relevant to their own experiences. Dozens of artists applied for the position, but it was local artist and UMBC alumnus Pax Babcock who rose to the challenge.
Babcock’s 15 thousand price tag came from funds that were originally earmarked for repairs in the RAC. College officials are optimistic that they will see a better return on their investment. Allistair Johnson, who is in charge of community outreach at UMBC, has high hopes for the future of the statues.
“These sculptures give the campus a fresh, new look. They have already stimulated conversations in the community, and increased student engagement,” Johnson said, patting one of the statues, “They will be a draw for people to come to UMBC.”
An unveiling ceremony was held on Sunday. The statues, lined up like soldiers, were covered in drop cloths for the big reveal. The event saw a great turnout, with seven students in attendance. The crowd was treated to live jazz and free hot dogs. Excitement grew as attendees waited to see the new face of the PAHB.
“My sculptures were made to represent UMBC,” Babcock said, standing in the shadow of his masterpieces. “Like the statues, the student body here stands firm as a community.”
After his rousing speech, Babcock had the honor of pulling off the first drop cloth. The emergence of the colossal phali drew enthusiastic applause from the crowd. A few eager students shouted “yes” at the reveal. Overall, the reception was warm.
Dick Reynolds, a junior English major, passes by the statues regularly on his way to class. He agreed that the new sculptures were a boon to the university.
“They are definitely an improvement,” Reynolds stated as he snacked on peanuts. “I think a lot of people get it.”
More than just an attractive form, the statues offer functionality as well. The base of each granite penis is outfitted with charging stations. Anyone who is out of juice can take a break and recharge their laptop or cell phone while enjoying the new artwork al fresco.
Not every student was enthusiastic about the new installment, however. Anna Dickinson, a sophomore general studies major, took personal offense at the art piece.
“The new sculptures are downright offensive,” Dickinson argued, gesturing toward the phalli. “It’s like they didn’t even take women into consideration. Where are the yonic statues?”
Even in the face of criticism, the statues aren’t going anywhere. In their short time, they have made a positive impact on UMBC. Reynolds, who loved the pieces, only had one, small critique.
“I thought they’d be bigger,” he said.
Read more stories from: The Retriever Weekly
