Client: Zoo Miami

Overview

"Cypress Landing", the 10,000 sq. ft. new children's play area at Zoo Miami, with its major water feature was designed by Matthew Geller and includes a multi-colored stainless steel 32' tall misting and water showering Cypress tree, water spraying Cypress knees, seating, playgrounds, landscaping, a concession stand, and a 150’ mural by Diana Kingsley. (con't below)

Goals

The Zoo wanted a new children's play area with a water feature.

Process

Geller’s process always begins with stakeholder and community engagement which could include learning about the area's history, gaining insight into the community’s vision for the site, and brainstorming about what would enrich and bring together their diverse community

Metalab provided project management, design development, and fabrication oversite services.

The Zoo expansion project architects, AECOM, designed and the site contractor installed the flatwork and below-grade utilities based on plans provided by the artist.

Additional Information

In his public art practice, Matthew Geller’s participatory sculptures become one of the building blocks that make a space a destination. As such, the work activates the site and promotes interaction among visitors, often creating intimate moments in a singularly public space. Part of his work’s success is that it is physically experiential: viewers understand that there is a place for themselves in it. His sculptures enable moments of respite and delight, befitting the site's functional and visual context. He purposefully uses materials from the everyday environment creating a level of connection to the familiar while highlighting elements of awe and beguilement. The idea is to surprise while fostering the sense of an inclusive community around an unlikely object or location, creating a micro public square or landmark. By considering behavioral design and incorporating dynamic elements activated by people and changes in the weather, the resulting work is in constant flux. Ultimately, the artwork’s goal will be to engender a sense of wonder, enhancing the community and visitor experience.