Client: Maine Percent for the Arts Program and Michael Johanning, architect
Location: Portland, ME, United States
Completion date: 2011
Project Team
Artist
Carol May
May & Watkins Design
Artist
Tim Watkins
May & Watkins Design
Overview
This kinetic installation was created as the entrance piece for a new Leeds certified facility. The sculptures use sustainable energy – wind, water, or sun to power blossoms or leaf-like forms. The four sculptures are made of galvanized steel and range in height from 6 to 24 feet. The imagery and powder-coated color are based on plant forms that work with the natural environment.
Goals
This piece is a simple demonstration of how renewable energy can create movement. A Leeds certified facility is a complex feat of engineering. Our art piece made complex concepts understandable and accessible.
Process
May & Watkins Design collaborated with the Architect and Civil Engineer to be sure that our vision was a creative solution, and a cohesive part of the overall building and site design.