Client: Norfolk Arts & Coastal VA Plein Air

Overview

Inside Chryshellis’ dusky white oyster shell, the sun rises above a golden ocean horizon on the right, while high above in the left half of the shell a crescent moon simultaneously sets above a silvery-blue ocean. And like a butterfly coming out of a cocoon, a new day dawns in Ocean View. This 8-foot tall sculpture is the newest piece of art in Ocean View Beach Park.

Medium: Concrete Sculpture, Glazed Porcelain and Glass Tile Mosaic
Dimensions: Approx. 9′ x 6′ x 4’
Date: 10/21

Goals

This sculpture embodies the meaning and history of the area and highlights the uniqueness and natural beauty of Ocean View. Many people stopped by during and after the installation to express enthusiastic support for the addition of Chryshellis to their park. The group who funded the project, Coastal VA Plein Air, are well on their way to raising funds for future sculptural installations. More to come!

Process

Due to the pandemic, there was extra on-site involvement from everyone I worked with in Norfolk to provide site videos, measurements, and site photos to help me experience the site virtually and to choose the final placement and position for Chryshellis in the park.

Additional Information

Placed both inside and outside there are stones engraved with inspirational words chosen by the OV public art committee. There’s also a geocoin embedded in the mosaic. You can make note of the coin’s number then login to Geocaching.com to leave comments about your visit to OV Beach and Chryshellis.