The Rotunda

Issue date: 9/9/09 Section: Features

Media Credit: Courtney Jones

By Maria Soliven
Rotunda Reporter

What once graced Brock Commons with its eccentric aura of bathtub-ly righteousness has departed Longwood University. The two-headed rubber duck, formally entitled the Two-Headed Trojan Ducky, was once located on a risen garden in front of the Greenwood Library. It has finally had its fill of student passersby, photo opportunitiess, and prospective student tours.

The sculptures that dot Brock Commons are created by nationwide professional artists. They rotate around college campuses, parks and other public facilities. Usually held on campus for a two-year period, the sculptures come and go to give Longwood a fresh look every now and then.

As noted on the Longwood Center for the Visual Arts (LCVA) website, the sculptures' purpose is to "foster intellectual discourse" and provide "an aesthetic environment in which the visual arts can be appreciated on a daily basis."

Rob Nielson, a professional sculptor amd an assistant professor of art at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, created Ducky. He first installed the duck at a prominent spot at Chicago's Navy Pier, for the city's annual Navy Pier Walk.

The Navy Pier Walk was held in 2004 and was known for being the largest outdoor sculpture exhibitionn of sculptures. It consisted of up to 30 sculptures by various artists. Longwood University called dibs shortly thereafter, and in the spring of 2007, the Duck was installed on Brock Commons.

Over its two-year stay, many students have grown attached to its curiously delightful presence.

"I miss the duck," said Kris Cook, a Longwood junior. He smiled as he recalled reading a newspaper article in the Farmville Herald about its arrival.

"Longwood is not Longwood without the duck," said sophomore Kristen Bashaw. "I remember taking a picture on it last year… and I'm sure a lot of other people did too."

Even freshman Kevin Bradtke recalled the duck while on his tour of the campus the previous year. "It was the reason I came to Longwood," he said in disappointment.

It was taken down over the summer and is now safe and sound with its creator. Its next location is still pending.

Alex Grabiec, the LCVA's exhibitions manager, informed The Rotunda that the next Brock Commons artist is scheduled to install her masterpiece on Wednesday, September 30, 2009.

The Two-Headed Trojan Duck has fulfilled its visit at Longwood, radiating awesomeness, curiosity, and for some students, frustration at its eccentricity. The time, however, has come for it to fly away. It leaves a light gray mark where it once sat, almost as if to say: Hold down the fort, kids. It's been a fun run.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools