This brand new art piece in Acacia Park, called "Alan's Odd Duck", has a cheerful presence and a sad back story. According to THIS article in the Colorado Springs Independent, it was created from a drawing by a boy named Alan Mahaffey who was tragically killed in a car accident. The drawing was made when Alan was six years old (though I'm not clear on how old he was when he passed away.) According to their Facebook page, "The hope for this project is that a young person, perhaps believing himself odd and unaccepted - can be reminded that being unique is a good and wonderful thing and that parents, struggling with the difficulty of loss and grief of a child – or despair over parenting a difficult child, when looking at the piece - might embrace and remember a joyful moment with their odd but beautiful son or daughter."
I love how a child's simple drawing can come to life as a colorful and funky piece of three-dimensional, purposeful art like this. I think it's a joyful remembrance of Alan, and it will certainly become a beloved part of Acacia Park.
8 comments:
All the colors of the rainbow. I love it.
Sad and poignant, but such a cheerful and happy work.
It's beautiful, even more so because of the back story.
Sad and happy at the same time.
Alan was my nephew. I just googled Alan's Odd Duck on a whim. This was the first article that came up. So sweet to remember him. All my love to Alan.and Shauna, Nate, Trent, Blake and Dane. His sister and Brothers are a reminder of his love and endearing kindness. He is remembered everyday and this statue is like he says hi to countless people every day.
Mary I'm so sorry for your family's loss. I'm so glad this artwork brings you some measure of comfort.
I was thinking about Alan and wanted to see his beautiful smile. I have an old photo from 2000 that’s tucked away in a box somewhere. It’s 1 am and the things you randomly wake up thinking about sometimes. So I googled his name and found this article about Alan’s Odd Duck art piece coming to life at Acacia Park and I literally have tears running down my face. It’s been 22 years since he left yet he will always be remembered for his beautiful and kindness and will always be in all our hearts. Thank you for everyone who made this happen. Much love to Alan and Alan’s family.
I'm so glad this blog post and photos of Alan's Odd Duck have brought you some solace, even if bittersweet. He sounds like he was a lovely child and clearly very much loved. Hugs to you and everyone who knew and loved Alan.
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