Client: Marcy Nanocenter

Overview

The VIBRANT MERIDIAN sculpture is a site-specific public art piece situated in the Marcy-SUNY Parkway roundabout, serving as the main entrance to Wolfspeed’s Mohawk Valley Fab in NY State, USA. Inspired by Wolfspeed’s expertise in wide bandgap semiconductors such as silicon carbide and gallium nitride used in various industries like electric vehicles, 5G, renewable energy, defense, and aerospace, the artwork draws from the geometry and reflective properties of silicon crystals.

The sculpture concept is influenced by the nature of silicon crystals, employing their geometric shapes and gradient reflective colors. It takes the form of a vibrant symbol inspired by semiconductor waffle structures, using horizontal and vertical lines resembling the geometry of semiconductors in a three-dimensional shape. Constructed from curved steel sticks painted with complementary colors in a gradient, the artwork creates a meridian with intercalated curves and vibrant contrasting colors. This design causes the sculpture to appear dynamic and vibrant when viewed in motion by drivers passing through the roundabout.

Goals

The integration of the commissioned artwork, VIBRANT MERIDIAN, was instrumental in the project's objectives. It aimed to translate the intricacies of semiconductor technology, specifically silicon carbide, into a dynamic three-dimensional representation inspired by its properties.

Symbolism: VIBRANT MERIDIAN symbolized Wolfspeed's expertise in semiconductors, serving as a visual representation of the company's innovation and technological capabilities.

Aesthetics: The artwork enhanced the site's visual appeal, adding an engaging and captivating element to the entryway of Wolfspeed’s Mohawk Valley Fab.

Community Engagement: Acting as a landmark, the artwork fostered a sense of pride and identity within the community, establishing a connection between Wolfspeed and the local residents.

Innovation Showcase: Drawing inspiration from silicon carbide's molecular structure, the artwork reflected Wolfspeed's commitment to pioneering technology, showcasing the company's progressive mindset and dedication to innovation.

VIBRANT MERIDIAN served as more than just an artistic addition; it encapsulated Wolfspeed's technological excellence, improved the site's visual appeal, established community ties, and highlighted the company's innovative spirit.

Process

The collaborative process behind the VIBRANT MERIDIAN project began with Anaisa Franco inviting Michael DiCarlo after winning a public art competition by Marcy Nanocenter. Their joint effort secured the project, initiating a year-long development journey.
RBHU oversaw the engineering phase to ensure the artwork's structural viability. Subsequently, 4TH STATE, a specialized steel company in New York state, translated the design into a physical sculpture during the fabrication phase.
A local installer handled the intricate task of installing the artwork at the designated site. To document the final stages, Michael DiCarlo visited the location, partnering with Osmany Cabrera to film the installation process.

The collaborative effort encompassed Anaisa Franco, Michael DiCarlo, RBHU for engineering, 4TH STATE for fabrication, and local installers. This collective expertise and cooperation were pivotal in transforming the initial concept into the tangible VIBRANT MERIDIAN artwork, establishing it as a significant public art installation at its designated location.