The Common Man Sculpture - Florence Italy

The Common Man Sculpture
Ponte Alle Grazie Bridge
Florence, Italy
photographic print
by Clif Hunt

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Notes from artist:
Clet Abraham (French born, living in Florence) said, when asked what the statue represents: “it  is intended as a stimulus to take an important and risky step. It represents one of those moments in one’s life in which one needs to make a decision even not knowing its consequences”

Clet Abraham was an artist from France, known for his playful and thought-provoking art. He had been living in Florence for years, and the city inspired him deeply. One of his dreams was to create a sculpture that would speak to the spirit of the everyday person, someone who walked the streets, lived ordinary lives, but held extraordinary stories within them. He envisioned this sculpture on the Ponte alle Grazie bridge in Florence, a city rich in art and history.

The sculpture, named "The Common Man," was meant to be a symbol of the people—a simple figure representing everyone who passed through the city's streets. But getting this sculpture installed was no easy task. Clet faced many obstacles: the city’s strict rules on public art, the resistance from authorities who didn’t understand his vision, and the challenge of finding the right materials and location.

Despite these barriers, Clet was determined. His unique qualities—his creativity, persistence, and deep love for Florence—helped him push forward. He worked tirelessly, sketching, planning, and negotiating with city officials. He believed in his vision and refused to give up, even when others doubted him.

The day of the installation finally arrived. The sights and sounds of the city were alive around him: the hum of the river beneath the bridge, the clanging of tools, and the excited chatter of onlookers. The air was filled with the smell of fresh paint and metal as the sculpture was carefully put into place. Clet could feel his heart pounding with excitement and nerves. This was the moment he had worked so hard for.

But just as quickly as it was installed, "The Common Man" was removed. The authorities decided it wasn’t suitable for the bridge, citing concerns that it didn’t fit the traditional image of Florence. Clet was devastated. His hard work had been undone, and the sculpture was taken down almost as soon as it had gone up.

As the architect overseeing the project, the removal was a harsh blow. The city's rejection felt like a personal failure. If the sculpture wasn’t reinstated, it would mean that Clet's vision, and the message it carried about the value of everyday people, would be lost. Florence, a city known for celebrating greatness, would have turned its back on the common man.

But Clet didn’t give up. He fought back, rallying public support and making his case to the city officials. His passion and dedication eventually paid off. After much debate, the city agreed to reinstall the sculpture, acknowledging its importance as a modern symbol of Florence's people.

When "The Common Man" was finally back on the bridge, the reaction was overwhelmingly positive. The architect received praise for his perseverance in making Clet’s vision a reality. The people of Florence and visitors alike admired the sculpture, and it became a beloved part of the city’s landscape.

For the architect, this project was more than just another job. It was a mission that tested his resolve and his belief in the power of art. Seeing the sculpture finally in place, with people stopping to admire it and reflect on its meaning, brought him immense pride. It was a reminder that even in a city of great masterpieces, there was always room for the common man.
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• Script text "Clif Hunt Photography"  is printed on the artwork.
• Printed options: 
  glossy photo paper (needs matting/framing).
  gallery wrapped canvas 1.5" depth & ready to hang. 
  acrylic  high gloss, modern display, & ready to hang.
  aluminum metal with rounded corners, gloss protectant coating, & ready to hang.
• Average ETA is 2-3 weeks with ground shipping. 
• All are created with archival pigment inks using premium materials with the print industry's highly rated professional equipment.
  
  
  Contact us with any inquiries on other size options, including custom sizes and large split panel (2 or 3) wall display options.
  

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