Current

Vision for the Bench: I designed this bench with two major considerations in mind. The sinuous form is for a pleasing shape embodying flow and movement. While the human-manipulated materials that make up the bench contrast with the surrounding natural environment, the bench's repetition of line and sense of movement invokes a congruent relationship with its environment. The concave face of the bench allows for interaction between visitors to the Sculpture Forest. Passers-by taking a rest will be nudged to engage in a quiet chat or conversation. Though, respecting the needs for personal space the bench's undulating form also allows for a convex seating arrangement to provoke focus elsewhere. A low backrest makes it easy to rest one's elbows to sit for long periods to just observe, communicate, or a combination of both.

Artist Statement: I take great pride in creating unique objects that successfully fulfill requirements of form and function. This project became more intriguing for two reasons. First the bench is an exterior object that posed challenges in the design and construction and aesthetics. I don't believe it is a casual duty when attempting to gracefully impose human-made objects into nature. Second, the project was one that, unlike other sculpture, involves interaction with people on an ongoing basis. It is my belief that 'good objects' can positively evoke emotion and interaction, personally and interpersonally. Artists before me have inspired these perspectives that now define my work. Natural artist Andy Goldsworthy from England, landscape architect Martha Schwartz from the U.S.A. and Christopher Alexander, author of "A Patterned Language", all promote an awareness of the integral relationship between us, the Earth, and the things we, as humans, make.