Client: Sybase

Overview

I won a City wide competition for the project. The art work was considered a gateway project located near the Train Station and I80 freeway. I was very into seeing my work move by the touch of a human hand at this time. This enabled the viewer to see my abstract sculptures move, sharing space as it opens and close, without having to move them self. It also encouraged people to touch my smaller works. So, I built 2 stainless steel bearings into this base design so the work can rotate and be adjustable changing its relationship to the environment. Celestial Motor can lock down into 4 different positions. Represents the material and shapes of the industrial revolution which led to the age of the Computer.

Goals

The projects goals included an artwork that inspired the Corporate Campus employees of Sybase and the general public. The work was designed to be seen by train, car or as a pedestrian. The feel of the work and the steel objects in its design were intended to represent the City of Emeryville's industrial history and vibrant arts culture.

Process

I was part of a team that included Sybase Management, San Jose Construction, Judy Kay and Associates, Sharon Wilcher of the EAC, City Planners and Engineers. With the aid of a to scale model of the art work and drawings I worked with all party's communicating design concerns, structural and project time line. We also planned and sited the works location based on my model, the side walk, landscaping and geometry of the building.

Additional Information

Best object I ever made. I created it by myself with a hoist I built. Installation took 45 minutes from my studio to setting it on the base. Current owner is Expression's Digital Media College. The piece rotates by hand locking down in 4 positions changing its relationship to the environment. This project was completed in Dec. 1995.