Aster & Links at One Main Plaza recently unveiled "Touch," a 15-foot stainless-steel sculpture by renowned sculptor Zachary Oxman. This detailed representation of a human hand appears to support the ceiling of the building's lower level. Oxman says of his work, “ "Touch" symbolizes the unity and strength of community through the language of touch. The hand extends gently upward, its fingertip lightly touching the ceiling, capturing the collective spirit of reaching for something greater. The mirror-polished surface reflects viewers, inviting them to see themselves within its form, while large, open spaces create a sense of lightness despite its two-ton weight. These voids remind us that community is defined not by rigid structures but by the open spaces between us, where empathy, connection, and shared purpose unite us as one.” The sculpture, placed at the entrance to the Aster, is part of the City of Sarasota’s Public Art Program.

Zachary Oxman (b. 1968) graduated from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA, and further developed his artistic skills at the Studio Arts Center International in Florence, Italy. His works are included in various prestigious collections worldwide, including those of the Vatican, as well as private collections of notable individuals such as Bill and Hillary Clinton and leaders from several countries, including France, India, South Korea, Germany, and Israel. Oxman currently resides in Washington, D.C.

Belpointe OZ, the developer of Aster & Links, decided to purchase the sculpture as part of the City of Sarasota’s Public Art Program. When developers undertake new projects in Sarasota, they have the option to include public art in their construction plans, contribute to the city’s public art fund, or commission public art for placement elsewhere in the city.

The City of Sarasota's Public Art Program aims to enhance the city's sense of place, celebrate community character, and promote collaboration. It envisions a community where public art is integrated into city initiatives, neighborhood revitalization efforts, and private development, making quality art and creative expression accessible to residents and visitors daily.

Public art can be observed throughout Sarasota, including sculptures in roundabouts, murals in parking garages, and mosaic-tiled fountains in city parks and common areas. Developers significantly contribute to the city's procurement of public art, which can be seen at locations like DeSota Apartments, Whole Foods, The Plaza at Five Points, Florida Studio Theater, The Mark, and others. Additionally, The Ritz Carlton hosts a collection of paintings as part of their contributions to the public art program.

For those interested in exploring Sarasota's Public Art Program, the Otocast Public Art Audio Tour provides an interactive way to experience the city's public art collection. Available through the Otocast app, free for Android and iOS users, the tour features artist-narrated stories, photos and videos of the artwork, additional resources, and an interactive map. Learn more at:

 

 

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The sculpture, placed at Aster’s entrance, is an abstract interpretation of the human hand, symbolizing connection, curiosity, and exploration.