process: sculpture

These images illustrate the creation of my art piece Lava,Source and Flow, constructed from the USGS Cerro Verde, New Mexico, 71/2 min. quadrangle map.

Initial conceptualization included imagined underground (volcanic-pipe) and surficial (lava flow) landforms.

In order to maintain map-topography lines, the outline of the structure was centered and the frosted-mylar map carefully cut into strips. Using a 4-strand stitch, each strip was then sewn, one row at a time, with linen rug warp and antique needles. The outer edges of each strip were hole-punched, sewn together with clear beading thread, knotted, and then glued into hoops.

When all of the hoops have been joined, each may be rotated individually, creating the possibility of multiple unique forms per artwork. Sculptures may be either mounted on a wall or ceiling, and are light enough to sway if touched by a person or a breeze.