Ever wonder what it takes to immortalize a legend in bronze? Here at the United Center in Chicago stands The Athlete Sculpture. It is not just a sculpture, it is a tribute to Michael Jordan.
Let me tell you the story behind this iconic piece of art. The Athlete Sculpture titled “The Spirit” captures the essence of “Air Jordan”. It has become one of the most recognizable sports sculptures of all time. Millions have visited it since its installation in 1996.
In late 1993, Jerry Reinsdorf, the Bulls Chairman, wanted a statue. He wanted it to honor the greatest player in NBA history. Steve Schanwald, the team’s Vice President, searched for the right sculptor.
In January 1994, Omri and Julie Rotblatt-Amrany were chosen. This husband-wife team from Highland Park, Illinois, got the job. They were to design and create The Athlete Sculpture. It would stand at the entrance to the United Center. The new home of the Bulls was set to open in August 1994. Schanwald wanted a realistic depiction of Jordan. He wanted it to show Jordan’s unique skill. He also wanted to create the illusion of flight. The Amranys’ design was approved by Jerry Reinsdorf.
The unveiling of The Athlete Sculpture was a big event. It happened on November 1, 1994. Larry King, Jerry Reinsdorf, and Michael Jordan himself were there. Jordan’s famous No 23 was retired that day. The statue sits on a five-foot high black granite base. Jordan’s basketball achievements are inscribed on it. The words “The best there ever was. The best there ever will be” are also there.
The Athlete Sculpture itself is impressive. It measures 12 feet tall. From top to bottom, it is 17 feet. It weighs 2,000 pounds. The statue was cast in bronze. The “lost wax” method was used. This happened at Art Casting of Illinois. It is a foundry in Oregon, Illinois.
The Amranys worked in secrecy. They put in 16-hour days. They worked seven days a week for four months. The Athlete Sculpture shows Jordan soaring over opponents. He is preparing to dunk. The airborne Jordan is attached to the base at just one point his knee.
The Athlete Sculpture has a quote displayed at its foot. It is from “A River Runs Through It”. It says “At that moment I knew, surely and clearly, that I was witnessing perfection. He stood before us, suspended above the earth, free from all its laws like a work of art, and I knew, just as surely and clearly, that life is not a work of art, and that the moment could not last.” This quote was added after Jordan’s second retirement in 1998. His basketball accomplishments, honors, and records were added too.
Julie and Omri Amrany captured the essence of Michael Jordan. They created a sculpture that inspires. The Athlete Sculpture represents hope. It embodies the energizing spirit of a heroic figure. It reminds us of the soulful experience that can inspire others. The Athlete Sculpture is more than just a statue. It is a symbol of greatness.