Loqui, which was designed by sculptor and public artist Blessing Hancock, has been in the installation process since March 2024.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Music City’s latest art installation is turning heads in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood in Nashville.
Loqui, which was designed by sculptor and public artist Blessing Hancock, has been in the installation process since March 2024. It debuted to the public on Sept. 12.
The striking sculpture comes to life at night when its spectacular light design illuminates the 415 phrases, 4,417 words and 22,020 characters that comprise the piece.
Loqui, which is Latin for “to speak,” is a “a testament to Nashville’s rich storytelling history and culture,” according to a release. The 32 foot tall, megaphone-shaped structure welcomes the public to interact with it to read the words from community leaders.
“One of the most purposeful statements I received during the community engagement process in Nashville was that ‘Above all, people here are kind to each other. We uplift one another and come together to help our neighbors out when they need it the most,’” said Hancock in a release. “I aim to establish a meaningful expression of this sentiment and to convey The Fairground’s value as a nationally recognized entertainment venue, through the inclusion of this contemporary artwork.”
Hancock has created more than 50 public and private sculptures internationally. She is installing seven public art pieces across the country in 2024, of which Loqui is her largest and most ambitious.
“Loqui will offer the Fairgrounds and visitors a new way to live with art: a way in which art enriches the human experience and creates an atmosphere of participation, curiosity and connection to community,” Hancock said.
Check out the sculpture for yourself near Expo 3 at the Nashville Fairgrounds on Nolensville Pike.