A welcoming gateway for the Prospect Park neighbourhood of Mpls./St Paul
And the fact that the tree was first planted in Minnesota in this neighbourhood.
To achieve bold colour and delicacy is the goal.
An important guide.
Fired sample of base colour
Looking for a balanced combination of green, yellow and gold
Edges will be polished. Second layer will bring depth of field to the piece.
The "sticks" of stainless must now be fabricated into a welcoming arch.
Coming out of the kiln, the vibrant piece will be the other side of the ginkgo leaf.
Creates depth of field. Provides two different ways to see the same leaf. Ginkgo #1 viewed from the playful child's side.
The "adult" side with subtle color and jewelled glass. Ginkgo #1 viewed from the adult side appears to be different.
And sparks
Always important to make sure it's straight.
No two are alike
Into the kiln for 24 hours
Two arches are complete and the detail work begins.
In the Studio garden
The last step before installation.
It is a delicate process. While shatter -resistant, you don't want to drop it on your toe. It's heavy.
Finally finished. Instal time.
Kerry Morgan and Michael Russelle lend their grit, elbow grease, and moral support to the installation process. Thanks so very much!
As soon as the work is sited, a man sits in its golden light.
Like the Ginkgo tree, which is not native to Minnesota, we hope all will bloom where they are planted.