'The Thinker’ comes to Adrian College posted 11/8/07
A gift of art is presented to the College.

ADRIAN, Mich. – A replica of the world famous sculpture, The Thinker Statue, originally created by Auguste Rodin, will be erected on the Adrian College campus November 15.

The sculpture comes to the college as a gift from alumnus and donor, Richard Kibbey (‘75). When asked about the gift, Kibbey said he is very excited about the changes taking place at Adrian College and wanted to be involved. According to President Jeffrey Docking, Kibbey has a passion for public art and wanted to purchase a piece for the College.

President Docking feels The Thinker Statue is very appropriate in representing Adrian College.

“This artwork is a visible symbol of the outstanding art program here at the College”, says Docking. “It is also consistent with our desire to move toward our Renaissance II campaign by emphasizing academics, intellectual discourse, quiet reflection, and knowledge production.”

The seven foot sculpture will eventually sit in the middle of a large sized water feature, adding to the scenery of Adrian College’s campus.

“It will serve to continue the beautification process on campus so that students and citizens of the community will have a pleasant place to walk, sit, reflect, and enjoy the campus surroundings,” says Docking.

‘The Thinker’ is also part of a larger plan. A new plaza, currently named Commencement Plaza, is in the works. The statue will be erected near the Bell Tower on the east side of campus. The open area in front of the statue and tower will eventually be revitalized, creating an outdoor venue for graduation. Vice-President and Dean for Academic Affairs, Dr. Dale Nesbary, says he is excited about the project and that the piece is quite exquisite.

“It is the single most impressive design from an architect I’ve seen,” says Nesbary. “The statue and plaza will create a front door to campus.”

'The Thinker' (1879-89) was originally designed by Auguste Rodin as part of a larger sculptural program called 'The Gates of Hell' inspired by The Divine Comedy of Dante. The statue has become synonymous with deep intellectual contemplation. It is meant to be a portrait of the great writer Dante himself.

The college has received well over $12,000,000 in gifts to improve academics and boost enrollment.