Arts group picks ‘Sea Breeze’ sculpture for Main Beach

The Arts Commission on Monday recommended a “Sea Breeze” for the shores of Laguna.

Commissioners unanimously voted in favor of Laguna Beach artist Sukhdev Dail’s vision for a sculpture to be placed at Main Beach. Dail, 73, was one of three finalists, including Ricardo Duffy and Pat Downing, who returned with revised designs after a November commission meeting.

Commissioners said they preferred Dail’s piece for its “playfulness” and use of glass to filter sunlight. Dail’s model shows a woman emerging from the ocean with her hair catching the breeze at it morphs into waves, depicted with colored glass.

Ken Auster, who chaired a commission subcommittee that analyzed the artists’ proposals, commended Dail for the intricacies of his design.

“What persuaded me ... is the calligraphy of the piece in contrast to a solid form,” Auster said. “There are two elements, not just one.”

Commissioner Mary Ferguson said she can see visitors to Main Beach gathering around “Sea Breeze” for pictures.

“I like the idea of interaction — sun shining through the hair and playfulness on the ground,” Ferguson said.

Duffy’s piece, titled “Nature’s Marker,” takes the shape of a surfboard featuring images of animals he has seen in Laguna, such as deer, red-tailed hawks and sea turtles.

Downing’s “One World” shows a hand holding the Earth as a symbol that every person can play a role in protecting and preserving the world.

Auster suggested that Dail may want to consider limiting the colors in the glass.

“Too much of a good thing can get garish,” Auster said. “I’m concerned about the harmony in color between the patinas that exist in the figure and the glass on the top part.”

The sculpture, made of bronze, will be 9 feet, 8 inches tall and set on a concrete slab, Dail told the commission.

The City Council will vote on Dail’s proposal next month, said Sian Poeschl, the city’s cultural arts manager.