Copper

Description:  Large aluminum structure with recycled bronze cylinder inside it.  Three mechanisms strike the cylinder sequentially, activated by an electric gearmotor, which is powered by solar panels.  When the sun shines, there is a sustained rhythm, which sounds similar to a heartbeat.  The red light in the piece comes from LEDs that are mounted inside glass laboratory bottles.  

Artist Statement: Copper, the title of this artwork, was created with two main themes in mind—sustainability and police work.  In order for human beings to contribute to the sustainability of any system, a certain amount of understanding, or truth of matters pertaining to the system must be realized.  Truth is a requirement of environmental sustainability, as well as the sustainability of law enforcement.  The police laboratories and evidence holding areas on the site are designed to provide truth, which leads to justice, which helps to sustain a credible and valued police force in Seattle.  In the artwork, I attempt to visually express this by using light, which is universally associated with truth.  Copper attempts to provide a place where one can rest and reflect upon the values that support all members of the Seattle Police Department.  And for any system to sustain itself there must be a period of rest in order for the activity to continue.

 Location: Airport Way Center, 2203 Airport Way South, Seattle WA 98134, (artwork is near Stacy Street)