Adora Zerlina Astra.

Gaudy Goddess of Feminine Cosmic Energy

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Aza, which is short for Adora Zerlina Astra ("Beloved One Created of the Stars") was built in late 2012 by sculptor Bruce Anderson. She is a non-denominational goddess, a composite of various deities that Anderson says celebrates the feminine energy of the cosmos. She was built for the owners of Eureka Springs' chili restaurant, whose lawn overlooks a downtown (Basin Spring) park, giving the statue a clear view of the public.

The blue-green creature, made of stained cement, holds an orb in one hand and a heart-shaped scepter in the other. She is covered in hand-cut sparkly tiles that were inspired, according to Anderson, by Hubble Telescope photographs of deep space. Aza, who has a beatific smile, has been variously interpreted as Hindi, Egyptian, and Roman Catholic, and some even think she's a mermaid, although her elaborate robes and large silver aura might be a disadvantage under the sea.

On the same property, atop a stone wall, look for a Humpty Dumpty. God of Male Energy?

Gaudy Goddess of Feminine Cosmic Energy

Address:: 2 Spring St., Eureka Springs, AR
Directions:: From US Hwy 62 turn north onto Hwy 23/S. Main St. Drive north a half-mile into town. The road splits; bear left up the hill onto Spring St. As the street veers left, park on the street (if you can). You'll see a sign hanging off a building on the left for Turpentine Creek, and a small park just beyond it. A set of stairs leads up the hill between the Turpentine Creek building and the park. The goddess statue is at the top of those stairs.
Admission:: Free
RA Rates:: Worth a Detour

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