“During the entire process of working with Mr. Cooley on the FAMU Project, he was a pleasure to work with. He listened to the University throughout the entire design, from start to finish. His excellent communication and understanding enabled him to create FAMU’s vision into his bronze masterpiece. He was able to produce a snake, that was not only rich in detail, but was able to capture the spirit of the University. He created a one-of-a-kind piece of art that has quickly become a cornerstone of the FAMU Campus.”
Sincerely,
JRA ARCHITECTS, INC.
David Vincent
President
This video chronicles the creation and installation of “The Rattler,” a monumental 42-foot-long bronze sculpture at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Florida. Commissioned by FAMU, this larger-than-life artwork is a seven-times replica of a real rattler snake, weighing a staggering 1800 pounds. The video the final piece that delves into the meticulous 18-month process of bringing this historical depiction to life, exploring the research conducted and the expert craftsmanship involved.
This video showcases the unveiling of a monumental 10-foot bronze sculpture honoring legendary football coach Bobby Bowden at his alma mater, Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama. Commissioned by the university and the Bowden family, this larger-than-life statue pays tribute to Bowden’s significant contributions to Samford during his tenure as assistant football coach and head coach of field and track between 1954 and 1962. The video delivers a final piece of art that took 16-month for the artistic to process, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the Cooley Studio and the Bowden family. Through personal sessions with Coach Bobby and Ann Bowden, the artists gained invaluable insights to ensure an authentic and fitting portrayal of the beloved coach.
This video features a life-size bronze family sculpture, a poignant addition to the permanent collection of the Museum of Florida History. Commissioned by Chairman Mitchell Cypress of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, this artwork represents a significant cultural and historical milestone. The video offers a close-up look at the intricate details and emotional depth captured in the sculpture, which is the culmination of a four-year project that aimed to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of the Seminole people.
This video showcases the “Jazz Man,” a life-size bronze sculpture of a jazz musician seated on a stool. Installed in Tallahassee, Florida, in August 2023, this artwork was commissioned by the City of Tallahassee with support from former County Commissioner Mary Ann Lindley and the Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency. The sculpture embodies the city’s rich cultural heritage, representing its past, present, and future artistic and musical traditions. Modeled after two-time Grammy Award winner Scotty Barnhardt, a renowned jazz player, trumpeter, and composer, the “Jazz Man” is a testament to Tallahassee’s vibrant arts scene and its enduring connection to jazz music. This video offers a detailed look at this striking piece of public art that took a 12-month to be created.
This video features a captivating bronze sculpture depicting a Seminole family from the 1830s. Commissioned by Florida State University and installed at the Moore Athletic Center, this life-size artwork portrays a family of four, dressed in traditional Seminole attire. The video delves into the meticulous 18-month process of creating this historical masterpiece, highlighting the extensive research conducted by renowned Seminole historian David Blackard from the Ah-Tha-Thi-Ki Museum in Hollywood, Florida.
This video showcases the life-size bronze statue of legendary singer and songwriter Ray Charles, erected in Haffye Hayes Park, Greenville, Florida. Commissioned by the Town of Greenville and spearheaded by former Mayor Elesta Pritchett, this monumental sculpture honors Charles’s significant contributions to music and his deep connection to the community where he grew up. The video delves into the year-long process of creating this powerful tribute, highlighting the collaborative efforts of artists and community members who came together to honor the legacy of this iconic figure.
This video highlights the “Pinnacle Art in Public Places” project, specifically focusing on a life-size bronze bust and accompanying note installed in Frenchtown, Tallahassee, Florida. Commissioned by Pinnacle Housing Group and curated by art consultant Doris Meltzer, this artwork pays tribute to the rich cultural heritage of the community. This sculpture was a12-month creative process, delving into the artist’s self-study of the instrument and stanza depicted in the sculpture. This project aims to enhance the public space and inspire a deeper appreciation for the arts and local history.