Client: Gerald Vance Dicker/The Bing Crosby Theater

Location: Spokane, WA, United States

Completion date: 2014

Artwork budget: $42,000

Project Team

Artist

Samuel Bates

Industry Resource

Mike Jekubik

Chameleon Woodcrafting

Client

Jerry Dicker

Industry Resource

Pat Callan

Industry Resource

Carlson Sheet Metal

Overview

5 layers of 1/4″ thick hand-carved crystal-grade glass.
Dynamically programmed illumination with integrated lighting.
Dimensions of glass, plus cabinetry and electronics: 72” long, 7′ high, 6″ deep.

Goals

The concept is a window into another world, much like the proscenium of a theater... This illuminated sequence of 5 carved glass panels and the hardwood cabinetry housing them is seamlessly integrated into the renovated third floor of the historic Bing Crosby Theater in downtown Spokane, Washington. Meticulously programmed sequences of constantly changing illumination make this glass installation as unique as the theater where it is placed.

Process

The medium was suggested by Samuel Bates (the artist). The development of the ideas for the artwork, and its placement within the theater were a collaborative effort by Sam Bates in conversation with Jerry Dicker (the owner of the theater). The glass was entirely designed and carved by Sam, and he also integrated all the electronic hardware and did the programming for the illumination that is essential to this artwork. Sam coordinated various subcontractors for the extensive wood and metal housing components of the installation.

Additional Information

The design is original, and everything in it is imaginary; resonant as in a dream, a window into another word which harmonizes with reality. Images suggesting multiple storylines emerge, and fade away, not all of them are necessarily taking place at the same time. The colors and intensities of the light gradually shift, changing the scene as several meticulously programmed timelines unfold, like changing chord progressions in music. At this point in time, this is the only multi-layered carved-glass artwork in the world to incorporate programmed sequences of changing light in this way.