Atlanta’s under-construction Mercedes-Benz Stadium in the US state of Georgia has unveiled two specially commissioned sculptures that will feature at the new facility when completed.
Due to open in June of next year, the 71,000-capacity stadium will be the home of NFL American football team the Atlanta Falcons and new Major League Soccer expansion franchise Atlanta United.
In homage to the NFL team, one sculpture features a falcon in full flight, while the second takes the shape of a football to represent the MLS franchise that is due to enter the league next year.
The falcon, which will be placed on the main plaza, measures 41.5ft tall and has a wingspan of over 64ft, ranking it as the largest bird sculpture in the world. The soccer ball will stand 35ft high and be placed by the north entrance to the stadium.
The sculptures were created by the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) as part of a range of work commissioned by stadium managers for the facility. When complete, the series will feature more than 100 pieces of work, produced by a team of 53 artists.
Arthur Blank, owner of both the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, said: “This stadium is meant to reflect what our fans and supporters told us they want, and the art programme is no exception. We listened and responded by choosing artists who would bring those sensibilities to the pieces they create; the ideas of community, inspiration, play and excitement will resonate throughout the building.”
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