PRESIDENT’S HOUSE,
Ray Kaskey, sculptor
Philadelphia, PA
Ray Kaskey is an American sculptor who studied architecture at Carnegie Melon University and Yale University, before establishing Kaskey Studio in 1983. As both a sculptor and an architect, Kaskey specializes in the creation of large scale civic art. In his work, he reinterprets classical themes from the ancient Greeks and Renaissance masters to resonate with today’s audiences. Davis Buckley Architects and Planners (DBA) collaborated with Kaskey on the art and architecture for the design competition for the President’s House in Philadelphia. Located just north of the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, this memorial addresses the complex dichotomy of freedom and slavery during the formative years of our nation. Sited above the house of Presidents George Washington and John Adams, the program features four large sculptural elements, eight glass Pillars of Truth and a commemorative space to honor the slave quarters. The team was one of three finalists in the competition. More about Kaskey and his work can be found on his website at www.kaskeystudio.com.