By Barbara A. Preston | Published on August 15, 2024
During the construction of Village Walk in Montgomery, developer Vince Pugliese contacted artist Gary Lee Price and commissioned the bronze sculpture “Einstein Bench.” Brett Pugliese, vice president of Pugliese Properties, said The Montgomery News“We thought it was a perfect fit for what we’re creating at Village Walk in Montgomery. It’s provided interaction and entertainment for the community. You often see children sitting next to Einstein and people taking photos and just enjoying this work of art.”
“Einstein Bench.” Artist: Gary Lee Price. Material: Bronze. Dimensions: 52″h x 70″w. Location: Montgomery Walk in Skillman, off Route 206.
The bronze sculpture is part of Gary Lee Price’s Great Contributor series. It depicts Einstein seated on a bench. The figure has a relaxed pose with both arms resting on the back of the bench and legs crossed at the ankle. The sculpture features fine detailing that adds texture to the figure’s clothing and captures the person’s likeness and expression with a slightly tousled hairstyle and a thoughtful expression. The bench itself is also part of the sculpture and features ornate armrests and wood plank patterns. The bronze material offers a timeless quality and the sculpture exudes a sense of peaceful contemplation.
Price said: “Apart from Einstein’s eccentricity and ability to think outside the box, I have loved his quote for many years: ‘Imagination is more important than knowledge.’ I always thought that I must create a monument to a man with such vision. I have always been fascinated by Einstein’s sheer visual richness; his hair, facial features and casual dress. I wanted to portray this in a very accessible, inviting gesture that said something like ‘come and talk to a genius.’ In studying Einstein’s life, I was equally impressed by his efforts and desire to create a world of peace and understanding despite the terrible events of his time.”
Thousands of Gary Lee Price’s sculptures are in collections around the world. The Great Contributor series includes about 20 pieces. These include: Shakespeare, the Wright brothers, Mother Teresa, Amelia Earhart, Abraham Lincoln, Harriet Tubman, Butch Cassidy, George Washington and Benjamin Franklin.
Price lives with his wife, Leesa Clark Price, in Buckeye, Arizona. Together they have nine children and 18 grandchildren.
