In 2001 I was asked to design an award to celebrates and honor the achievements of Italians and their contributions to Arizona’s economic and cultural growth. My idea behind the design was to create a small, minimalist sculpture that represents both Arizona and Italy in one single object.
The state of Arizona, often called the Copper state, is aptly represented by a very thick, solid copper plate and a centered, perforated cut-out in the shape of Italy, the inseparable influence of Italians in the heart of Arizona. The design decision to make a cut-through perforation, rather than engraving, gives the sculpture a much lighter look than a simple engraved, visually heavier plate. The base is made of very solid and strong marble-like rock to represent the solid foundation between Italy and Arizona. In the updated design for NIAF, the base was covered in leather.
