Client: Saint Alphonsus Medical Center

Overview

The seven vertical sections in this metal and glass wall sculpture symbolize the Seven Catholic Sensibilities. Forged and fabricated steel, aerosol enamel paints, wax, and kiln formed glass, approximately 21 feet tall and 17 feet wide.

Goals

The intention of this commissioned artwork is to create beauty and to contribute to the Saint Alphonsus healing environment with respect for spiritual contemplation for patients, family, friends and co-workers. The columnar sections in this metal and architectural glass wall piece, is an encompassing representation the Seven Catholic Sensibilities. The landscape depicted focuses on the last of the sensibilities, “Stewardship of God’s Creation”. The scene is one of familiarity to this region of southern Idaho. In this area of the state one would experience desert, farmland, high desert, foothills, mountains and the heavens. Employing nature as subject matter is important in helping to provide a calming environment that is spiritual and inclusive also, it integrates the provider’s Catholic heritage with acknowledging the universal idea of the final teaching, we must respect and take care of Nature.

Process

Our client was a Catholic-based organization and it was their desire to have a work of art that reflected the spiritual nature of their founding organization. To help communicate the design concept to the client, we provided a digital rendering of the installed art piece, as well as a working model, which conveyed materials, illumination and maintenance. Presenting a maquette is a useful tool to demonstrate the quality of the work, and the tactile nature of the forged steel, architectural glass, and LED lighting. We worked with the involved team of architects, engineers, staff and the art consultant to prepare the install site, reinforce the recessed section of wall and integrate the LED lighting with the electrical plan of the building.

Additional Information

Integrated within the sculpture are seven inscribed parable and miracle medallions. Viewers are encouraged interact with the work and to find the medallions hidden within the lower yellow desert section of the wall sculpture. A didactic is provided with a key showing the same images. It describes the narrative of the teachings and the symbols representing the parables.