The destruction of a 30-foot-tall sculpture in north Thornton remains a mystery.
Called “RAE,” the sculpture was erected in 2024 at the East 136th median as part of the city’s public arts program. But the colorful piece was heavily damaged overnight, March 19, and its pieces were strewn along the median, which is only a few yards from I-25.
City officials said that it appeared at first that the wind had taken the piece apart.
But this week, the city council was told that the cause of the sculpture’s “failure” during its warranty period is being investigated by Thornton Police and a private investigator hired by the artist, Volkan Alkanoglu.
Also on the case is a licensed professional engineer and the sculpture’s fabricator.
The city should have the results of the probe this month, which will determine which party’s insurance will reimburse the city for the cost of the sculpture, said Erica Schmitt, the city’s public arts coordinator. The funds would be used for future projects, Schmitt told the council.
The remaining metal footings and cement pads for “RAE” will be removed as Thornton plans to put in a new city sign and xeriscaping landscaping for the median, she said. The sculpture, she added, will not be reinstalled.
According to the sculpture designer’s description, the name is an acronym for Robotic Art Experience:
“Standing proudly in the heart of Thornton, Colorado, the towering sculpture named R.A.E. – the Robotic Art Experience – mesmerizes onlookers with its dynamic form and futuristic allure. Stretching an impressive 30 feet into the sky, this innovative sculpture symbolizes the city’s forward-thinking spirit and technological innovation.”