Andrea Bocelli

Gainbridge Fieldhouse

Indianapolis, IN

December 7, 2022

All art, visual, audible, tactile, or written, functions to make connections. Those bonds are often best felt as they allude to elusive thoughts and ideas through associations. In these allusions, all art might be considered a form of poetry.

Andrea Bocelli creates connections through his voice, the words he sings, and the music he plays. His poetry of words and sounds moves people and is felt throughout the world.

Here in Indiana, named “the place of the Indians,” spoken through the stone of this land (Indiana Limestone), is a small token of gratitude for Mr. Bocelli’s ability to touch the stars with the poetry that he makes.

The form of this presentation piece was influenced by the ancient “banner stones” of the midwestern Native Americans. The material from which it is made is unique to Indiana. The words carved in braille refer to the fifth line in a favored song, “Nessun Dorma.” That line is slightly altered from the original, but it is pertinent to the aspirations of all. Here, the intent is to speak of the accomplishments and poetry of Mr. Bocelli.

Signor Andrea Bocelli, thank you for sharing the gift of your spirit through your poetry.

The Bocelli Presentation Sculpture

“Touch the Stars”

The sculpture is carved from Indiana Limestone. It stands in a black powder-coated cradle of aluminum. The cradle is attached to a base made of Indiana Black Walnut. A small plaque attached to the base is inscribed with the words, “Andrea Bocelli, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis, Indiana, December 7, 2022”.

The stone form of this presentation piece is inspired by the banner stones of the ancient Native American peoples. These stones are found in the eastern and midwestern areas of the United States. Scholars believe the banner stones to be ceremonial, but their use has been lost to time. They are, however, often characterized by their bilateral sensitive elegant shapes. As noted within the written presentation, Indiana is named “The place of the Indians.” The intent by association is to reference our state in this form.

This Indiana Limestone sculpture is secure within its cradle, but it is intended to be removed and held in hands. The stone is sensual and smooth to the touch. Interrupted within the center of this form are 22 raised dots. These dots are a braille pattern that says, “Touch the Stars.” This pertinent sentiment also references the fifth line of the song, “Nessun Dorma.” Nessun Dorma is known to be a favored song of Mr. Bocelli.

Dale Enochs

www.daleenochs.com