Ernest and Ruth

*Ernest and Ruth*, by New York contemporary artist Hank Willis Thomas, was commissioned in 2015. Thomas created these speech bubbles — made from steel plate and pipe — in hopes that Park-goers would sit and contemplate what it means to, quote, “inhabit their own speech and beliefs.” The sculptures serve as benches that invite you to sit and reflect on how you communicate with others. They are a fantastic play gym for younger Park-goers, as well as an equally great spot to recharge and find a little shade after running in the surrounding fields, taking in the sight of the Park’s sunflowers, or trekking over from the pond. Thomas named the sculptures after his grandparents. And it’s not hard to imagine an older married couple sitting on opposite sides of these speech bubbles, talking with one another through the years. When reflecting on his work, Thomas had this to say: "I’m very much into interactivity in work and work that inspires viewers to become participants." "All of my work is about framing and context and how, depending on where you stand, it affects what you see. And as a photographer, these works are frames. The idea of not only making images but making work that encourages other people to make images is really exciting." "I hope we’re creating a space for framing our lives and our stories in new ways." True to Thomas’s intent, *Ernest and Ruth* is a popular mainstay on social media — with visitors posting pictures of themselves with friends and family at the sculpture while stopping for some rest and reflection.