Across the Grain

Located at the corner of Harper and Church Street, downtown Lenoir, one finds an unusual piece of artwork in a circular "sawblade" shape. This sculpture was created by Thomas Sayre and commissioned by the Caldwell Arts Council. This concrete circular form with jagged, toothy edges rises about 26 feet above ground. One can see water wheels, saw mills, and furniture factories in this structure, referencing back to an industry that provided an economic base for the county for many years. The structure is made of concrete and steel with iron oxide cast in molds dug from earth that gives it that reddish, earthy tone.

Accessed March 18th, 2024. https://www.thomassayre.com/new-project.