Client: major healthcare system executive offices

Overview

Designed to inspire, this uplifting composition enlivens the 2 story atrium of the renovated historic barn. This 55 piece hand-blown glass suspended sculptural composition is approximately 14’L x 16’H x 2’D. The pieces were created in a gradient of blue hues, transitioning through the space giving it a feeling of upward motion. As the light shifts throughout the day, the shadow play beckons the viewer to experience the work from below, above, and at eye level.

Goals

This sculptural installation was created to inspire, to welcome, and to beautify. It was designed to integrate with and to complement the atrium space of the historic barn that now houses the executive offices of a major healthcare system in Palo Alto, CA. The composition had to take into account the existing historical features of the atrium that could not be moved, including exposed plumbing.

Process

The abstract bird shapes were sculpted as simple yet elegant forms with sparing detail to place the emphasis on the gesture of the movement. The color was applied by hand, layering transparent and opaque pigments to create depth and visual interest. Dichroic glass accents were incorporated into the color design to allow the pieces to shimmer in the changing light. The artist and installer team suggested blocking be incorporated into the ceiling during the renovation process so that the artwork could be installed in a way that would have the cleanest and most visually appealing appearance. The artist/ installer team coordinated with the architect and contractor during the renovation process to ensure a smooth and successful installation. Great care and attention to detail had to be taken with the final layout and the installation as the pieces had to work with the blocking and work around the exposed plumbing features of the atrium space.