The butterfly – originally part of the statute called “Taking Flight” which welcomes all to the WCA’s Washington Street location — is home again after being stolen for a third time and will be re-installed soon.
The first theft happened in March of 2012. A building security camera showed a group of teens knocking it off the statue and walking away; then returning later to take the bronze and stained glass butterfly.
The butterfly was returned after the theft was reported on local news stations and in the newspaper. It was reinstalled to its place on the statue in May 2012, but sadly was taken again the very next day. . . never to return.
The new butterfly was installed on October 4, 2013.
On October 4, 2013, nearly one year after the vandalism and thefts of 2012, a new butterfly was installed — once again making the statue whole. It was, however, taken for a third time on November 11. After an amazing show of support from local media organizations and by the community through social media — the butterfly was returned in the early hours of November 12.
“We are so thankful to all those who shared the photos and video footage and got the word out,” said Chris Campbell, WCA Communications Manager. “There’s no doubt in my mind that someone recognized the person who damaged the statue and took the butterfly – resulting in its quick return. It is a testament to the great community we live in.”
The butterfly, valued between $2,000 and $2,500, was born from the passion of local artist Valerie Pierce. When asked about it, she talks of metamorphosis, perseverance, and journey.
“Anytime we have adversity in our life, we have a chance for metamorphosis—that is what the butterfly symbolizes—especially the monarch,” said Pierce, who re-created the original “Taking Flight” butterfly. “It has this amazing journey. It is long-lived and it is a survivor. And that is what these women are. They are survivors,” said Valerie.
