The World's Largest Gavel, created by Andrew F. Scott, is the largest hammer in the world made entirely of stainless steel. This impressive sculpture is located in the south reflecting pool in front of the Ohio State Supreme Court building, serving as a powerful symbol of the authority of the judicial system. The "Gavel" was commissioned in 2008 by the Ohio State Bar Association for $200,000, and its grand size embodies the full power of justice.
Initial sketches of the "Gavel" included the inscription “NO JUSTICE NO PEACE” on the impact block. This phrase, first recorded during a protest in 1986 against the racially motivated killing of Michael Griffit, has become a symbol of the fight for justice in the face of inequality. Although this phrase did not make it into the final version of the sculpture, the enormous size of the "Gavel" and the fact that it was created by an African American artist continue to serve as a constant reminder to the Ohio Supreme Court of their duty to ensure justice and protect the most vulnerable members of society.
Andrew F. Scott, the author of "Gavel," is a multimedia artist and sculptor who harmoniously combines digital technologies with traditional fine arts methods and collective cultural values in his work. Scott draws inspiration from African American art and culture, based on the principle of “Sankofa” — a concept from the Twi language that emphasizes the importance of consulting knowledge from the past for use in the present to achieve progress. Through his innovative approach, Scott rethinks traditional forms and ideas, bringing them into a contemporary context. The "Gavel" is not just a sculpture, but a monumental reminder of the responsibility of the judiciary to deliver justice for all. Visitors to the Ohio Supreme Court can see this stunning work of art firsthand and reflect on the powerful message it conveys.
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Address: 65 S Front St, Columbus, OH 43215
