south elevation
“ S w a y ’d ” I n s t a l l a t i o n In its essence, the installation’s seemingly unorchestrated subtle movements are reminiscent of a field of grass or trees reacting to the wind. Although each rod sways independently to its own rhythm, each individual rod maintains harmony with the whole; all swaying together in a symphony orchestrated by the supple forces of nature - no one part more important than the whole.
moly-filled nylon rods
Project News Links: http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/home/50826138-76/design-lot-utah-architects.html.csp http://www.aiautahyaf.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=26&Itemid=34
PROCESS
The rods are aligned on a thirty-inch-square grid, representative of the urban layout of Salt Lake City and surrounding areas. Individual rods created out of moly-filled nylon pitch themselves over ten feet into the air to create a defined but open space. Although each rod is very thin, one inch in diameter, the nylon composition provides resistance without hindering motion. For ground support, each rod is cemented into a concrete footing with minimal disturbance to the site. The sharp rays of sunlight cast hard shadows that are diffused on the gravel floor. Nighttime lighting is provided from security floodlights on the theatre wall and street lamps lining the walkways. Because of the tight spacing between rods, adults will likely be required to slowly meander through the site while children will enjoy running around brushing the rods. All observers will be able to take an active role creating the movements by pressing against the rods and watching them undulate in diminishing reactive movements. The creative movements have been sway’d.