As part of the continuing series of hanging sculptures, I present to you, Philodendron Amazonia! This series of sculptures is developed out of the Hurricane Chaser series. It utilizes similar design elements of steel rebar (concrete reinforcing rod) is formed around natural stone and the resulting components hare hung in a chain-like manner. In this manner, relatively large sculptures can be developed which do not need massive concrete foundations. The haning sculptures are anchored by hanging from a hook anchored into overhead house beams or possibly from tree branches.
In contemporary architecture, tall vaulted ceilings often make placement of more traditional art challenging. The exploitation of these architectural spaces is what I have tried to achieve with this series. They can be made to fit otherwise difficult areas. The design goal is to provide interesting focal objects while minimizing the invasive required construction to display. Often a hook in a beam is all that is needed for a relatively large sculpture. A weighted chain held together with hooks makes fabrication, transport and installation much easier than if the object was one complete unit. The components are modular, yet fit together in a composition.
In the above space, the sculpture fits perfectly. It augments the architectural space and matches the landscaping with natural stone. This is a north facing alcove where planting has been difficult. Nothing would grow in this location. The hanging sculpture was a great choice. In order to keep possible movment of this articulated piece minimized, the terminal element is anchored to a small concrete foundation in the ground. In case of an earthquake or stormy winds, the sculpture will not break the window behind it.
Obviously, there can be other variations on the same theme. The Philodendron Amazonia is just one of many possible combinations of shapes, materials and sizes. The three sculptures below were shown at the Laguna Beach Festival of Arts in 2006. All have been permanently installed in architectural settings.
A close up view of this collection shows how the individual elements are joined with artistic S-hooks. Natural stone is a 'found object' which provides mass and an additional design element to the compositions.
The sculptue on the left side uses found objects, circular saw blades for it's design elements. The center one, the first Philodendron Amazonia, uses flower-like elements and long graceful galvanized leaves, the right scultpure uses fabricated steel leaves, cut circular saw blades stone and formed rebar as it's design elements. After water-jet cutting, the leaves are hand-formed and welded.
