Jack Connors Memorial at 200 Clarendon
RODE was selected to assist sculptor Pablo Eduardo complete a tribute to Jack Connors in the plaza at 200 Clarendon, formerly named the Hancock Tower. This was an iconic space being suggested to honor an icon of philanthropy and commerce. Jack’s legacy is widely known, but in reality, he had a simple, humble message to share about living a life for others. Rooted in his faith and beliefs- he willed us to think of simple ways to help, to give, and to extend a hand. He wants us to be aware of those all around us- or even in one’s circle of friends and family. RODE helped Pablo develop the concept so it could be understood by the Mayor, the Boston Arts Commission and the Planning Department. The space where Jack sits on the bench is a publicly accessible, private space - owned and managed by Boston Properties (BxP). RODE provided graphic materials, 3D modeling, renderings, construction drawings and on-site coordination of all the pieces.
The plaza is the very space Jack used to engage with friends and colleagues for decades- he was a fixture there and this would be the perfect place to extend his presence. The fact that Jack is facing the corner passageway, with Trinity Chapel beyond, is both literal and figurative. The 4 benches are standard around Boston College’s campus; his alma mater that he spent a lifetime supporting. Having a warm material in the stone plaza would be a first. We studied patterns on Trinity and the geometry of the plaza and tower to conceive of the bench positions and material detailing.
Jack’s memorial consists of bronze casting involving steps with clay, silicone, wax and ceramic molding to produce bronze plates- then pieced together through welding. The final steps involve grinding and patching before the texture and patina is added. Illuminating Jack was a priority; we achieved this by underlighting the benches and focusing discrete spotlights on all sides of the piece to create a seamless, integrated effect.
Art plays an important role in Boston’s civic places. It gives meaning to both daily lives and the numerous visitors eager to learn something about our history. RODE works with artists at all scales and we understand how important it is to collaborate with a vision in mind. RODE enjoys the technical craftsmanship of public art.
Our collaborators include:
Pablo Eduardo, sculptor
Sincere Metal Works, fabricator
Lam Partners, Lighting consultants
Citywide Construction Company, GC
Sully Mac, Electricians
AA Penta Company, Masonry
Nauset Strategies, Government relations
Joe Nolan, Eversource
