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Copper Heads by Patsy Norvell
Photo CreditGSAJudie Bowen
Copper Heads
Photo CreditGSAJudie Bowen

Copper Heads

Year1985
Classification sculpture
Medium painted steel with copper tops
Dimensions7 columns: each 13-15 feet tall by 18 inches in diameter
Credits Commissioned through the Art in Architecture Program
Fine Arts Collection
U.S. General Services Administration
  • Ms. Norvell's artistic interests lie in creating spatial passages and settings that identify and define a site.  The seven columns of Copper Heads bisect the plaza of the Brien McMahon U.S.Courthouse and Federal Building in a semi-circular pattern.  They create and announce a transitional space that is reflected in  changes in the paving pattern from the street, to the columns, and to the entrance of building.  The columns punctuate the progression of pedestrian traffic through the plaza and divide the plaza into more intimate and personal spaces.