Sculpture Selected To Adorn Batavia West Cemetery Columbarium

BATAVIA, IL — Batavia City Council has decided on a sculpture to adorn the columbarium at Batavia West Cemetry.

Using community input, alderpersons chose artist Chad La Fever's "Eternal Flame" sculpture concept as the winner. One of three finalists, the California-based artist was the top vote-getter, officials said.

"The symbolism of an ever- burning flame portrays the essence of the lasting memory of the City of Batavia's loved ones who are interred within West Cemetery," the artist wrote in a letter to the proposal review committee. "Although a place to bury the deceased, West Cemetery also serves as a gathering place for grieving families, and members of the community to visit their loved ones. 'Eternal Flame' is the visual essence of the feeling that we all carry with us for our loved ones that have died."

The city began seeking proposals from artists across the country in March for the public artwork that will sit on the columbarium, visible from Route 31, that was installed in 2021.

"The sculpture should present a timeless design that reflects a level of reverence, honor and dignity befitting of those who rest within the cemetery," Gary Holm, the city's public works director, said when the competition was announced.

Officials said the sculpture will be created and installed "in the near future."

The city budgeted $40,000 to commission the completed and installed sculpture. Officials said the actual award value will be negotiated with La Fever.