Client: Adam McIsaac

Overview

Installed at the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture in Seattle, the eleven large, cast bronze paddles represent the arrival of a Chinookan canoe carrying cultural heroes of that region and the knowledge they embody. The canoe paddles are lifted upright in a traditional form of peaceful greeting and respect to the museum and its guests.

Goals

“This is a magnificent artwork that honors the original peoples of this land,” Karen Hanan, ArtsWA executive director, said.

Process

The 11 unique paddles were originally carved in wood at one uniform size by the artist. FORM's scanning department captured high resolution scans of each paddle, and our digital artists carefully replicated the hand-carved textures onto the backsides of each one. We then incorporated one of the carvings onto the back of each paddle, giving them a uniform motif from behind.

The paddles were digitally enlarged to their final 6', 9' and 12' scales and 3D printed in an investable material. After receiving a careful wax infusion, the panels were sent to the foundry for casting.

No molds were used.

Additional Information

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with University of Washington.