Client: San Diego Unified Port District

Overview

My Bike was created in 2008 for the Urban Trees 5 exhibition on the Embarcadero sponsored by the Port of San Diego Public Art Program. At the conclusion of the one year exhibition, My Bike was purchased by the San Diego Unified Port District for their permanent collection. Since November 2009, My Bike has been installed next to the bike and pedestrian path in Tidelands Park on Coronado Island. With the Coronado Bridge as a backdrop, My Bike has become a favorite of residents and visitors to the Island, is a popular gathering place for cyclists to begin group rides, and has become a much-photographed landmark.

Goals

In collaboration with the City of Coronado Public Art Department, the Port Authority selected the site for My Bike's permanent installation. Over time, it became clear this sculpture is perfectly located next to the bike and pedestrian path in Tidelands Park on Coronado Island where people of all ages encounter it while visiting the park. San Diego is a paradise for people who love to be outside year-round engaging in all manner of activities under the sun. My Bike captures that spirit -- from the free-flowing hair, to the sun glinting off the polished surfaces, to the spinning 40" diameter wheels. When enlivened by wind and light, this sculpture fascinates people of all ages with its movement, reflections and shadows. Interest in cycling for pleasure, transportation, fitness and competition is prevalent, so its appeal is broad. And who doesn't remember their first bike and the sense of freedom it afforded? When looking at this sculpture, a smile is the typical response.

Process

I proposed this sculpture for a temporary exhibition in 2008. It was accepted and put on display for a year on the Embarcadero in downtown San Diego. At the conclusion of the exhibition, due to the sculpture's popularity, the San Diego Unified Port District purchased My Bike for placement in Tidelands Park on Coronado Island where pedestrians, cyclists, athletes, photographers and tourists have continued to enjoy it since 2009.

This sculpture resulted from a spark of inspiration. I had no idea it was but the first in what would become an ever-expanding series of kinetic bicycle sculptures as a result of the overwhelmingly positive response by the public. I continue to work with clients to evaluate their site requirements, installation and design options to create unique and inspiring kinetic bicycle sculptures for their private or public collection.