BECKLEY, W.V. (LOOTPRESS) – A new sculpture was unveiled in Beckley on Sunday, September 26, 2021. The sculpture has sat covered for weeks, piquing the curiosity of residents and guests alike.
The Rising Cardinals sculpture, designed and built by sculptor Jamie Lester and engineer Jeff Edwards, sits on the corner of Neville and Herber Streets. The plaza where the sculpture rests was designed by Sam Rich of Thrasher Engineering and constructed by the City’s Public Works Department with landscaping by Green River Landscaping.
The sculpture features four cardinals, West Virginia’s state bird. The bird at the base of the diamond-shaped sculpture looks more realistic, and the birds become more abstract and refined as they reach the top.
A small unveiling ceremony, attended by Mayor Rob Rappold, Lester and others, was held on Sunday.
“I am proud to unveil this bronze and stainless-steel sculpture…” stated Lester. “I hope it stands as a symbol of transcendence for all of West Virginia!”
