Oceanside CA— If there’s anything we’ve learned over the past two years, it’s that this community has heart!  What better way to illustrate that sentiment than with a community sculpture?  Soon, Oceanside residents and visitors will be able to cement their commitments with a “love lock” in the City we all call home.
At its meeting on January 26, 2022, the Oceanside City Council approved the Love the O interactive sculpture proposal, to be created by Randall Art Ranch.  The metal sculpture will be installed between the Oceanside Harbor and Harbor Beach for the community to create a lasting connection and celebrate a commitment by placing a personal lock on the sculpture. Engraved locks, or ones simply marked for sentimental meaning to celebrate a birth, a marriage, a loved one, or a special occasion can be hung and revisited.

The 10’ x 10’ sculpture will be fabricated with Corten steel. Sometimes called weathering steel, the metal is designed to develop a protective weathered surface which ages to a rusty, earthy look without losing its durability due to the salty sea air.
The Love the O sculpture will be funded by donations.  Visit Oceanside will be the local entity to accept donations of any amount for this community endeavor.  Donations of $1,000 or more will receive a custom lock designed specifically for this site-specific sculpture.  The front of the lock will have a 3-D heart and the back of the lock will show an engraving of the sculpture. Only 55 special donor locks will be made available and will never be reproduced again.  These 55 romantic donors will be invited to an opening celebration, and will be the first to place their locks.
This artwork will add to the eclectic and vibrant arts environment in downtown Oceanside, which was named one of the state’s first 14 designated cultural districts.  The sculpture also aims to create opportunities for dramatic, fun photos, as the sun will be captured at sunset in the sculpture’s open heart center.