samara
2016
30' x 12' x 12'
aluminum and brass mesh
“Samara”is a kinetic sculpture installed at the Henrietta Lacks Bioscience High School in Vancouver Wa. It represents the winged maple seed, known as a Samara, taking its spiraling journey through the air. Bigleaf Maple is second to Red Alder among native hardwood species in abundance and in commercial importance in the Pacific Northwest. The sculptural composition consists of 16 maple seeds in a spiral formation, each approximately 6’ in length. Each individual wing shape was cut out of sheet aluminum, and all the drops were melted down and cast to create the seed pods. These components were welded together with a brass mesh integrated between the two layers. A motor mounted above keeps the entire composition continually moving. The maple seed represents the start of a new life. Each of these little flying whirligigs has the potential to grow into a giant tree. Similar to those in high school who are just beginning their life’s journey. The sculpture sparks the imagination- its motion, the journey it takes, twirling towards soil- is captivating. Where will it land?