News Summary
On March 14, Georgia Tech celebrated Pi Day and Albert Einstein’s birthday with a 5K run and the unveiling of the ‘Space-Time Man’ sculpture. This event highlighted the intersection of mathematics and science, commemorating Einstein’s legacy on campus. Weighing 3,000 pounds, the sculpture pays tribute to the iconic physicist, marking a significant cultural milestone for Georgia Tech and Atlanta.
Georgia Tech Celebrates Pi Day and Albert Einstein’s Birthday with Unique Sculpture Tribute
Atlanta, the vibrant capital of Georgia, witnessed a unique blend of mathematics and science appreciation on March 14 as Georgia Tech students laced up their running shoes for a 5K run in recognition of Pi Day, symbolically celebrated as 3.14. This date is also significant as it marks the birthday of the iconic physicist Albert Einstein, who was born on March 14, 1879, in Ulm, Germany.
A Historic Coincidence
While Einstein himself never set foot in the state of Georgia, his legacy remains alive and celebrated on the midtown campus of Georgia Tech. This campus, home to the spirited Yellow Jacket mascot “Buzz,” serves as a fitting location for tributes to a man who reshaped our understanding of the universe.
Introducing the Space-Time Man
One of the standout features of this celebration is the prominent Space-Time Man sculpture, crafted by renowned sculptor Robert Berks. This impressive piece of art is the third and final creation by Berks, aimed at paying homage to Einstein. The sculpture depicts a seemingly bored patent clerk from 1902, reflecting Einstein’s early years in Bern, Switzerland.
A Collaborative Effort
Thanks to the efforts of Atlanta businessman Jim Barksdale, along with various civic leaders, the vision for placing this iconic sculpture at Georgia Tech came to fruition. They convinced Dorothy Berks, the widow of Robert Berks, to allow the sculpture to make its new home on campus.
Impressive Specifications
Weighing in at a hefty 3,000 pounds, the sculpture was transported to Atlanta via plane from Berks’ studio in Orient, New York, precisely 113 years after Einstein’s birth. The dedication ceremony took place in 2015, marking a significant moment in the appreciation of the physicist’s contributions to science.
A Lasting Legacy
During the ceremony, a passage written by Berks himself was recited, adding a personal touch to the event. Interestingly, Georgia Tech’s statue is one of only three bronze sculptures of Einstein dedicated to his legacy, with the remaining two located in Washington, D.C. at the National Academy of Sciences and in Israel at its Academy of Sciences and Humanities.
A Call to Celebration
As the day unfolded, the atmosphere was charged with excitement. However, amid the celebrations, reflections on social media showed a surprising absence of posts commemorating Einstein’s birthday. Therefore, it is only fitting to wish a glorious happy birthday to Einstein and a heartfelt Pi Day to everyone who celebrates.
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Additional Resources
- Creative Loafing: Talk of the Town
- Wikipedia: Pi Day
- Creative Loafing: Event Details
- Google Search: Albert Einstein
- Psychology Today: Attractiveness and IQ Levels
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Albert Einstein
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
