The masonry sculpture was built by Jay Hubbell, a Columbia artist and stoneworker who has now unfortunately passed away. He was a veteran drummer in local punk bands including From Safety to Where, Hubbell built stone works across the Southeast and here in Columbia, including obelisks on Millwood Avenue and at Gervais and Oak.

Hubbell created the 12 ft. tall, 15,000-pound brick wheel in the back yard of his Columbia home. It stands improbably on its end, like a coin, with a framed slot in its center like a door. The bricks run diagonally across one face, giving it a feeling of movement despite its mass.

After Hubbell died, Tracie Broom, a longtime friend of Hubbell, approached property owner Richard Burts, to suggest he speak with Hubbell’s family, who were looking to donate the piece as public art. Burts spoke with members of Hubbell’s family, including brother Karl Hubbell, who resides in Denver. The piece was then moved to Five Points in 2019.

Artist: Jefferson Jay Hubbell

Type: Sculpture

Unveiled 2019

Source: One Columbia