Chain Reaction depicts a mushroom cloud created by a nuclear explosion. Designed by American editorial cartoonist Paul Conrad and built by Peter M. Carlson, the 26-foot high sculpture was installed in 1991 adjacent to the Santa Monica Civic Center. An inscription at the base of the sculpture reads, “This is a statement of peace. May it never become an epitaph.” The sculpture was built with the help of an anonymous donation of $250,000, later revealed to be from philanthropist Joan Kroc, widow of Ray Kroc, the founder of the McDonald’s corporation. Joan Kroc spent millions campaigning for nuclear disarmament in the 1980s.
Monday’s Monument: Chain Reaction, Santa Monica, California
