August 6th

Today’s additions: a toothbrush, a lighter and more bottle caps.

August 5th

I decided yesterday that I will not be painting the plastic parts as I intially intended. I am pleased with the contrast between the organic and man made elements.

August 4th / Trashy

The majority of the bones are done. So I will be concentrating on building some trash for a spell.  I am not trying to replicate a specific nest site or bird, so I can rely on instinct and intuition for creating more elements.

August 4th / todays links about the gyre

Both links were emailed to me today!

San Jose Mercury News / Garbage patch

Reuters / Huge plastic patch

August 3rd

Six days until the opening reception.

August 3rd / Artist Statement

The inspiration for this project first began while reading about the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. I discovered pictures of albatross carcasses and skeletons in nests on tiny islands and atolls in the Pacific Ocean. The birds had died from ingestion of plastic, mostly bottle caps fed by regurgitation from a parent bird. The concentration of plastic in the chest and torso of some of the birds had a similar appearance to a cornucopia overflowing. The reality is a picture of unwitting infanticide committed by diligent parents and the needless suffering of an innocent creature. As an artist I am drawn visually to the relationship between the natural elements and the plastic parts. The installation is a potent metaphor for the ethical & environmental challenges humankind faces.

Gyre Nest Opening Reception

You are invited to the reception for Gyre Nest. The piece will only be up a week, Aug 10-14th 12-4pm.

Google Map of site.

This Project is made possible from the Art In Great Spaces program sponsored by the Arts Council of Snohomish County, the city Of Everett and Snohomish County.

July 31st

The nest site is coming together.  The photo below is a gull that was hanging around the space, at one point it was peeking in the windows.

July 30th

WhooHoo! The island is done. (pretty much)

July 29th

Hurray, the edge is finished!