"The Endless Bench," a 12-foot outdoor sculpture that depicts the bond between mothers and children was installed on July 7, 1984 on the front lawn of University Avenue entrance to the Sick Kids Hospital. Donated by artist Lea Vivot in remembrance of her son Morris who died in 1979. On October 3, 1999 the statues were stolen. At first officials believed that the statues were taken as a prank, and that they would soon be returned. A hospital surveillance tape showed seven people at the site; three are seen moving the more than 300 lb. statues into a van. Hospital officials issued a no questions asked public plea on October 14 for the return of the statues. Within the first hour the story became public, an anonymous caller revealed the location of the statues and arrangements were made to have them returned to Sick Kids. Upon their return added measures were taken to secure them. No charges were ever laid, and all information that led to the return of the statues have remained confidential.
What a sweet sculpture.
ReplyDeleteWhat a bizzare theft
ReplyDeleteThe statues are wonderful depictions of bonding and friendship. There obviously is a story behind the theft if no charges were made. It is mysterious and bizarre!
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting story. I can't imagine why anyone would want to take these statues? It's not like you could display them without someone ratting you out (as it happened). Quite odd! Glad they were returned though. :)
ReplyDeleteThat is a interesting story about this wonderful work of art. A true mystery.
ReplyDeleteIn some places, a statue of a breastfeeding mother would cause a major brouhaha; not from me - I like it - and I'm glad it was returned. Thanks for sharing the photo and the story.
ReplyDeleteFine sculpture and strange story of the theft. Luckily it had a happy ending. Excellent photo and post.
ReplyDeleteThat's a story with a very happy ending. People do have trouble leaving public art alone.
ReplyDeleteWell, that was just...sick. I wonder if the thieves planned to melt the sculptures for the bronze. I'm glad the story ended with the return of the statues. It's a very nice installation.
ReplyDeleteIt's hard to understand people sometimes - at least a happy ending. And a great image with moving story behind the statues.
ReplyDeleteA nice statue with great story. I would like more of these statues and not only on difficult points like children hospitals were you are looking at it with a different mind setting.
ReplyDeletewhat a weird story? I'm glad the sculptures were recovered!!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad they had a softening of the heart and returned them. I did not know this story.
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