phototaxis
Steel, Glass, Neon, Argon, Acrylic
4 ft x 4 ft x 7 ft | 121 cm x 121 cm x 213 cm
2023
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pho·to·tax·is
/ˌfōdōˈtaksəs/
noun: BIOLOGY
the movement of an organism in response to light
phototaxis has the appearance of a classic bug zapper, with a grid frame and trapezoidal prism body. The structure is built from various formats of steel and primed to naturally patina over time.
Atop the piece sits a mirrored glass sphere, reflecting the environment and giving observers another way to take in their surroundings.
Inside the chamber hangs a chandelier of blown glass cages and noble gases. An additional element, indicating it has a life of its own, is a “zapping” feature achieved with Argon filled crackle tubes.
Neon has the unique ability to make people stop in their tracks and draw them in. There is a magnetism in its light.
My goal is to perpetuate amazement and wonder through a familiar object, reimagined.
phototaxis reminds us that we are but a small slice in the planet’s grand wheel of life, and not unlike its many other inhabitants.
ABOUT THE PROCESS
Phototaxis is a series // concept I have been experimenting with since 2012 while earning my BFA, and have a goal to create a version at monumental scale.
After receiving the INFLUX art grant, I thought it would be a great opportunity to explore the concept, producing a large scale maquette and exploration of the “phototaxis” concept.
Built from January - March of 2023 and is on long term display in Avondale, AZ at new development project THE BLVD.
It is located on the SW corner of the new parking garage.On View > 114th Avenue & Dale Earnhardt Drive
THANK YOU : INFLUX CYCLE 10 ART GRANT FUNDING BY THE CITY OF AVONDALE
Special Thanks : Deann Franklin, Rob Larson, Michael Butzine, Cody Cloud, Cody Hunt, & Charlie Vierhout
