Granite, basalt. 2006. 14" with base. Private collection.
Already as a rough boulder, the granite suggested a graph or mathematical function to me, and that impression remained foremost in my mind as I worked the stone. Specifically, the form represents the figure-8 phase-space diagram my scientific hero Buzz Holling uses to describe the resilient character of complex ecological and social systems. I carved the sculpture in his honour, on the occasion of a Festschrift held in his honour.
I find it hilarious that although this sculpture is clearly abstract, it is also representational. But what it represents is a high level scientific abstraction!
The granite is from the west coast of Vancouver Island, and the basalt from a small islet near my home on Quadra Island.
Photos by Lee Gass.
Already as a rough boulder, the granite suggested a graph or mathematical function to me, and that impression remained foremost in my mind as I worked the stone. Specifically, the form represents the figure-8 phase-space diagram my scientific hero Buzz Holling uses to describe the resilient character of complex ecological and social systems. I carved the sculpture in his honour, on the occasion of a Festschrift held in his honour.
I find it hilarious that although this sculpture is clearly abstract, it is also representational. But what it represents is a high level scientific abstraction!
The granite is from the west coast of Vancouver Island, and the basalt from a small islet near my home on Quadra Island.
Photos by Lee Gass.
