Block Island, RI

June 2008

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BROWER HATCHER

Inspired by the natural world, my work reflects the underlying geometry of organisms and living systems, resulting in sculptures that reflect the 21st century concept and aesthetic of combining technology and natural processes.

The essential concept of biomimetic work is to illustrate that living systems are in reciprocity with their environment. This approach is completely unique and important to our 21st century culture. As a civilization over the past 100 years we have gone from the Industrial Age, to the Information Age, and are now shifting in the Green Age. Although we particularly notice this in architecture and design, it should also be reflected in art.

My proposed site-specific work would grow from its geographical location. To do this I would take climate data from the site and incorporate this data into mathematical algorithms that impact the form of the sculpture. The surveyed data would include: solar path and intensity, prevailing winds (force and direction), temperature, and rainfall.

I then start with a basic form which is the core, the seed, the egg. The lower part of this form is buried below grade and filled with stones, as if it were rooted and growing out of the ground.
 

The algorithms created from the climate data result in measurements which are then used in the sculpture’s design. This data is programmed on a 12 month cycle on polar coordinates. The resulting measurements are “mapped” as layers of geometric matrix on the basic form, with each layer representing a year of climatic progression. As a result, each layer of this matrix is powder-coated a separate color and successive layers evolve into a form that is a record of climate history.

The computer generated model represented here is one based on climate data from my home on Block Island, RI, over a three year period and is thus a 3D visual climate map for that period. Further layers would create additional distortion and a more dramatic shape.

My proposed work would be similar in appearance but more dramatic and intricate, incorporating as many as 5 layers. Distortions in these layers would reflect climate change.