Pechanga Innerchange - CODAworx

Pechanga Innerchange

Submitted by Mike Hansel

Client: The Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians

Location: Temecula, CA, United States

Completion date: 2017

Artwork budget: $30,000

Project Team

Art Consultant

Claudia E. Kieth

Dyversified Art Consulting

Artist

Mike Hansel

Hansel 3D, LLC

Overview

“Pechanga Innerchange” 2017, Aluminum, 10'(H) x 6'(W) x 5'(D), draws a parallel between a winding roadway and the inner workings of the mind. Finding this particular shape is the result of creating some distortions from a mechanical gear. My progression involves starting with familiar objects and stripping away information until they become less perceptible. The resulting imageries are references to the meandering nature of the thought process. The finished composition leaves the viewer with the comfort of familiarity and the tantalizing uncertainty of not being able to truly identify or categorize the forms.

Goals

The artwork was selected by a committee representing the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. The project is part of a large expansion to their resort and casino in Temecula. CA. Compatibility with the architectural motif was a priority. The organic forms and earthy finishes made this work appealing to the committee.

Process

Communication between the artist, art consultant, and project management, was consistent throughout the process. Many options related to the form and finishes were discussed initially. Weight restrictions for the site had influence on the materials selected. A scale model was made in order to make clear decisions about form and scale. The patina became critical for the final integration into the site. The decisions for this were made using samples supplied to the art consultant.