Someone not artistically inclined might take one look at the forged steel object - and judge it to be one of the most uncomfortable-looking park benches of all time.
In fact, it's public art.
The piece - titled "Reflection" - is on display along the Rillito River Park Trail just west of North Craycroft Road.
Its horizontal, ridged, not-exactly-comfy-looking surface is about the height of a low park bench, but its creator said its main purpose is to be an artistic depiction of flowing water.
"It represents that location where the Pantano Wash and Tanque Verde Creek merge to create the Rillito River," said Tucson artist and blacksmith David Flynn. "That's where the inspiration came from."
Installed in 2009, the piece consists of the steel "flow" surging past real boulders. It's part of the Pima County Public Art Program.
"It wasn't made as a bench," Flynn said. "But I intentionally built it at that height so people could sit on it if they wanted to."
You might give it the sit-down test if you pass by the site.
But chances are pretty good that you'll agree with this assessment: It's a fine piece of public art - perhaps best appreciated from a standing position.
Back in stock
A new batch of Tucson Oddities books has arrived. The full-color book contains 50 oddities that readers of the Arizona Daily Star have inquired about over the years. You can buy the book online at azstarnet.com/store or in the lobby of the Star, 4850 S. Park Ave. The book costs $14.99 plus tax and shipping and handling, if you want it mailed. Questions can be referred to oddity@azstarnet.com or 573-4232.
Contact reporter Doug Kreutz at dkreutz@azstarnet.com or at 573-4192.
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