“Peace and Love” isn’t just a phrase it’s a way of life. Here we are in Beverly Hills standing before Ringo Starr’s “Peace and Love” sculpture. It’s an 800-pound monument to positivity. This polished steel artwork embodies Ringo’s message to the world.
Ringo Starr, the former Beatles drummer, designed this sculpture. He wanted to give Beverly Hills, his adopted hometown, a special gift. The city initially declined his generous offer. The Fine Art Commission felt it didn’t meet their criteria. They didn’t consider Ringo an artist. They thought the work wasn’t art. One sculptor helping Ringo even joked that they would have rejected Van Gogh or Picasso.
But, the city changed its tune. They authorized the sculpture’s placement on Santa Monica Boulevard. Mayor John Mirisch declared “We want to be a city of love and peace”. The previous commission had a narrow view of public art. The council could overrule them.
Ringo persisted despite the initial rejection. He wanted fans to take photos with the monument. He wanted them to pose with the palm side showing. Showing the back of the hand is rude in the United Kingdom. The location is framed by tall plants for this reason.
He originally wanted the sculpture in front of City Hall. The arts panel struggled to agree on a location. Traffic at one spot might endanger tourists. Another location was deemed aesthetically unfit. One committee member even suggested Beverly Cañon Park. She thought kids could climb on it there. The mayor felt that park was too small.
Other cities were interested in the sculpture. Ringo wanted it in his hometown. Finally, they settled on a prominent spot in front of City Hall.
The Arts and Culture Commission ultimately found the perfect spot. Deborah Frank said it’s an excellent location. It is visible from Santa Monica Boulevard. There’s ample room for visitors to engage with the artwork. It’s perfect for Instagram.
This sculpture reflects Beverly Hills’ values. It reminds us to embrace peace and love. So, take a moment. Reflect on the message. Share the peace and love. Consider this: Ringo also created 500 smaller “Peace and Love” statues. He sold them for charity. The proceeds went to The Lotus Foundation. This organization supports social welfare projects. These projects address substance abuse, domestic abuse, homelessness, and animal welfare.
The “Peace and Love” sculpture stands as a symbol. It embodies Ringo Starr’s enduring message. It’s a message Beverly Hills now proudly embraces.