Incrementally
Artist
Adam Kuby
MediumGranite, trees of several varieties (maples, cedars, fir)
DimensionsWeaving Stones: 6 in., 17 x 17 ft. (15.2 x 518.1 x 518.1 cm)
Splitting Stones: 10 in., 13 x 17 ft. (25.4 x 396.2 x 518.1 cm)
Bowl Stones: 18 in., 25 x 5 ft. (45.7 x 762 x 152.4 cm)
Closing Stone: 30 x 72 x 42 in. (76.2 x 182.9 x 106.7 cm)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineSeattle Public Utilities 1% for Art funds
Description: Adam Kuby’s artwork in the stormwater detention pond in Seattle’s Madison Valley punctuates this newly created neighborhood amenity. Seattle Public Utilities, landscape architect Karen Kiest and Kuby transformed a drainage facility into a place for strolling, playing and resting.
Kuby uses trees and granite to explore the collaboration between the built and natural worlds: Weaving Stones, a matrix of low stones around a tree that, as it grows, will ultimately the push the stones around changing their patterns. Splitting Stones, is a cluster of vine maples, each growing in the cracks of granite slabs broken in half. As each tree matures, it will further push apart the pieces, evoking the power of nature as colliding with the urban environment. Bowls includes two identical stone bowls split into two, one being pushed apart by a tree and the other being pushed back together by two trees – representing nature’s ability to repair and heal over time. Closing, a split granite cube placed between two trees that will slowly push the pieces back together again represents nature’s healing powers. This artwork addresses SPU’s stewardship of water collection and drainage.