The Great Mother

This is one of two Sculptures located outside the Youth Study Center.





Location: 20th St. and Ben Franklin Parkway (back side of Youth Study Center)

Medium: Bronze on Concrete Base

Artist(s): Waldemar Raemisch

Dedicated: 1955

Statue Inscription: No inscription save for name and dedication date on sculpture base, located on backside.

Note(s): These sculpture along with its mate, The Great Doctor, are representations of the great caregivers of the city. These sculptures were Raemish's final works. (Source: http://www.phila.gov/property/vp_art_mother.html)

Commentary: Recently an effort has been made to put out placards along the parkway discussing the art that lines it. This piece was seemingly neglected despite its strong presence against the stark minimalist walls of the Youth Study Center. I ponder what will happen to these pieces when the Barns Foundation moves to the Youth Study Center property. Another shame, is that very few people walk up to these sculptures; is it because it is so set back from the Parkway, or the the half-dozen or so homeless encampments. When I came close to the sculptures to take pictures many of those sitting near, walked off or turned their back when I pulled out my camera. It is an ironic juxtaposition, that this homage to the caregivers is shunned because people are too afraid to go near some of this city's weakest citizens in need of care.