1999-, Phoenix, AZ
This unrealized project creates a sculptural space in harmony with its site, Scatterwash. This dry Arizona riverbed has cycles of water that appear and disappear. Made of natural materials – stone and mist – the sculpture echoes the colors, textures and cycles of the surrounding landscape. Its low form provides a place where people can visit and contemplate the natural beauty of the wash. Like an oasis, it creates a delightful place to pause and cool off, before or after exploring the Scatterwash area. READ MORE
Pink granite, black basalt, water mist, lights
Dimensions: 38' Diameter x 6' H (with mist)
The sculpture's form is inspired by a circular motif found on Hohokam Indian pottery and petroglyphs. This graphic image has a circular center from which seven curved legs emanate, like spokes of a wheel. Some people speculate that the design is a symbol of water in motion.
The design transforms a two-dimensional symbol into a three-dimensional sculptural form. It is a 38' diameter stone structure made of pinkish/orange granite and black basalt rock, in keeping with the warm colors of the site and the nearby basalt hills. It sits low to the ground blending in with the landscape.
The seven spokes of the wheel are granite paths on which viewers can walk. The paths begin at ground level and slope up gently toward the center of the sculpture; there the slope levels off to create a flat ledge. In the center, there is a bowl made of black basalt stone, from which a dome of mist billows. Viewers can sit on the ledge to experience the mist, which reaches a height of approximately 6'. The dome of mist is visible from the street, attracting curious visitors. Depending on wind, temperature, and humidity, the mist continually changes in appearance. In addition, a timer (20 minutes on, 5 minutes off) causes the mist to appear and disappear, echoing the cycles of the wash.
Solid yet ephemeral, the sculpture is a metaphor for the everchanging character of this landscape. The experience of the sculpture is quiet and contemplative yet also dramatic, providing a bridge between the natural and built landscapes.