COLDWATER, MI — A striking new sculpture now stands in Tibbits Plaza, drawing attention from passersby and adding a touch of creativity to downtown Coldwater.
Sunday Mahaja, a sculptor from Goshen, Indiana, has leased his handcrafted giraffe to the Coldwater Downtown Development Authority/Main Street program for a year, giving the community the opportunity to experience his work up close.
Mahaja’s giraffe is more than a visual statement—it’s a testament to resourcefulness and craftsmanship.
Made from recycled steel sourced from RV factories in his hometown, the sculpture reflects his commitment to upcycling discarded materials.
“When people realize I’m using recycled and discarded materials, they tend to look closer,” Mahaja said. “It’s like the piece of art gives that material a whole new life.”
He achieved the sculpture’s warm, weathered tone with a chemical treatment, then sealed it with a powder coating and clear finish to protect it from rust and handling.
Originally from Nigeria by way of England, Mahaja came to the United States on a basketball scholarship to Goshen College, where he studied art.
The 38-year-old played basketball for Goshen College from 2010 to 2014.
Although he began as a painter, he discovered his passion for sculpture, realizing that his lifelong experience building wire creations set his work apart.
“Once I started sculpting, it seemed to come very naturally to me,” he said. “I knew I could create something different.”
Now a U.S. citizen, Mahaja operates a workshop in Goshen, where he creates and displays large-scale works before exhibiting or selling them.
His work often reflects childhood memories of nature and wildlife.
The Coldwater installation provides visibility for the artist and a unique cultural experience for the community, with the hope it inspires future commissions and lasting appreciation for public art.
Contact Don Reid, dReid@USATodayCo.Com
This article originally appeared on Coldwater Daily Reporter: Recycled steel giraffe sculpture debuts in Tibbits Plaza
Reporting by Don Reid, Coldwater Daily Reporter / Coldwater Daily Reporter
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Don Reid, Coldwater Daily Reporter | USA TODAY Network
