‘Circle Of Friends’ Sculptures Celebrate Difference In Races

Opinions about Mount Spokane High School’s courtyard sculptures are as diverse as the student body.

But perhaps that’s the point.

Harold Balazs’ creation, “Circle of Friends,” is meant to represent the five races of our species - black, brown, yellow, red and white.

“Of course, now they’re not that clearly defined,” Balazs said, “but the idea is to celebrate differences rather than be afraid of them. I’ve always tried to champion rejoicing in diversity.”

Most of the student body, teachers and Mead School District officials joined Balazs at the official dedication ceremony Tuesday afternoon in the courtyard.

The sculptures all appear to be created from different materials, and in fact, most are. Figures made of aluminum - shiny and sandblasted - steel, stainless steel and copper each sit atop a 10-foot cement post. One rotates in the wind like a lazy weather vane.

“They are nonobjective,” Balazs said of the sculptures. “I made no attempt to replicate anything.”

Any so, the forms boldly defy description. They’re not like anything, but are gracefully melded shapes and curves - perhaps best thought of as giant, three-dimensional doodles.

The sculptures took their place in the courtyard last June. Though Balazs said most of the pieces could be lifted by four people, he had to get help from a helicopter to get each on top of its post.

Regarding his motivation, Balazs quoted an Islamic saying: “God expects more of us than to just replicate the known world.”

“I like that idea,” he said. “The purpose of art is not to be understood, but to cause wonder.”

And students are wondering - many are wondering why good money was spent on such objects. “They’re interesting looking, but I don’t know what they are,” said sophomore Lacey Davis. “Some students have thought about TP-ing them.”

“We studied them for two weeks in a drawing and painting class,” added junior Sarah Eilerman, “so I learned to like them.”

“Circle of Friends” is part of the Art in Public Places program, which sets aside a small percentage of state construction project budgets for original artwork. Balazs concedes a secluded courtyard is not the most public of places but said the location seemed too perfect to pass up.

Some students agree.

“I think they’re beautiful,” said senior Melinda Bretches. “Each has a different aspect, so everyone can appreciate at least one.”

Balazs said the project took him the better part of a year and thinks it’s the best commission he’s ever done.

But positive feedback is what makes it all worthwhile.

“I’m not interested in appealing to my own generation,” said Balazs, 71. “I’m looking at pleasing the kids - they usually have broader imaginations than their parents.”