The following images represent the development of work inspired by the physical layout of Worcester MA, water infrastructure. A visit to the water treatment plant and some informal research gave me further understanding of how the system works and what happens to water before we get it from the tap. This project was funded in part by ArtsWorcester (material needs Grant). The images in this page are not a complete version of the final pieces.
Each sculpted piece was modeled after a part of the city. The top surface foot print of each piece is an enlarged version of part of the map. I sectioned parts of the map by major streets and neighborhoods to create several forms made from foam. These forms resemble pieces of land to me. The scale of the land in these sculptures is too small for the overlaying pipework. I am convinced that this network of pipes that deliver and transport water in and out of our homes is a crucial element in our everyday routine. Because water infrastructure is so vast it doesn't feel real. It's unseen for miles. The only evidence of it's existence is a single pipe into each household and thousands of manhole covers. Water ways, Fire hydrants and storm water drains seamlessly fit into the structure of the city. Reservoirs, rivers, lakes and ponds give us a visual connection to nature but they don't provide a clue as to their purpose and importance in our lives.
Each sculpted piece was modeled after a part of the city. The top surface foot print of each piece is an enlarged version of part of the map. I sectioned parts of the map by major streets and neighborhoods to create several forms made from foam. These forms resemble pieces of land to me. The scale of the land in these sculptures is too small for the overlaying pipework. I am convinced that this network of pipes that deliver and transport water in and out of our homes is a crucial element in our everyday routine. Because water infrastructure is so vast it doesn't feel real. It's unseen for miles. The only evidence of it's existence is a single pipe into each household and thousands of manhole covers. Water ways, Fire hydrants and storm water drains seamlessly fit into the structure of the city. Reservoirs, rivers, lakes and ponds give us a visual connection to nature but they don't provide a clue as to their purpose and importance in our lives.