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County Collection

East Los Angeles Civic Center

Leaping Fish, Nature's Cycles

Photos by: Jose Rude Calderon | Click for larger photos

Project Description

Jose Rude Calderon’s Leaping Fish, Nature’s Cycles was commissioned by First District County Supervisor Molina for the East Los Angeles Civic Center Renovation Project. This multi-part piece is located within Belvedere Park Lake and consists of two leaping fish sculptures, several accompanying fountains and lighting pieces. The foci are the fish, both of which appear above the water’s surface poised dynamically in mid air. The south-end fish is made of multicolored travertine, six feet in length, and appears as if jumping out of the water; its counterpart at the north end is slight larger at seven feet, white in color, and seems to be diving back into the lake. Water shooting out from small fountains at the sides of the fish further implies the splashing of movement.

Calderon’s concept for the piece is lyrical in nature: it reflects on the perpetual cycles of life, and uses fish as a symbol of rebirth and renewal. In this sense, the lake itself acts a metaphor for nature’s cycle as the younger fish springs from, and older fish returns to, the waters of its origins.

About the Artist

Jose Rude Calderon was born in Costa Rica and lives and works in Monterey Park, California. His work has been included in numerous solo and international group shows. In addition to practicing as a public artist, Calderon works in both painting and stone carving in his studio.