A newly installed public art piece will be unveiled in the lobby of Franklin County’s new Courthouse at 11 a.m. on July 28.

“Man of Characters,” by artist Brian Tolle, is a nearly 8-foot-by-10-foot depiction of Ben Franklin’s portrait as printed on the $100 bill. The lines of the drawing are comprised of text excerpts taken from Franklin’s writings.

The piece is being donated to Franklin County Commissioners by the Pizzuti family from the Pizzuti Collection. Ron Pizzuti, chairman of The Pizzuti Companies, is recognized by ARTnews as one of the world’s top 200 collectors.

“I’m extremely pleased to present this unique gift to the residents of Franklin County,” Pizzuti said. “Public art plays an important role in defining a community’s image, energizes our public spaces, engages the community and enhances our quality of life.”

“This piece, in particular, is a striking representation of the historical significance of the county’s namesake,” Pizzuti added.

“Man of Characters” artist Brian Tolle noted that Franklin was perhaps the most complex figure of early American history. “Ben Franklin is considered by many to be the greatest writer of his era,” Tolle added.

“Franklin’s complexity as statesman, inventor, scientist, printer and author is revealed through use of his writings in creating ‘Man of Characters,’” Tolle said. “It’s a complicated work, much like Ben Franklin himself.”

The Pizzuti-donated artwork is a key component in the county’s continued commitment to public art, which includes the relocation of a Ben Franklin statue to the recently completed pavilion adjacent to the Franklin County Hall of Justice at 369 S. High St.

“‘Man of Characters’ is not only a beautiful piece, but a tribute to our County’s namesake and founding father Benjamin Franklin,” said Commissioner Marilyn Brown. “We are honored the Pizzuti family chose our new Common Pleas Courthouse to display this important work, which will allow our residents to enjoy it for years to come.”