Nidum by Jon Kamrath at River Landing

Artist Statement

Nidum, meaning "Nest" in Latin, embodies a towering testament to unity and support, standing proudly at 7 feet tall. Crafted from Corten steel, three imposing wedges interlock to cradle a reflective stainless steel sphere, elevated atop a sturdy steel pedestal. The sculpture's commanding presence, marked by its large scale, robust angles, and contrasting finishes, captivates viewers and beckons them closer. As one approaches, the sculpture's diagonal lines guide the eye on a mesmerizing journey around its entirety, each piece seamlessly transitioning into the next, offering a kaleidoscope of ever-changing perspectives.

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The interplay of strong lines and fluid curves pays homage to the surrounding environment, while the stainless sphere mirrors the viewer and their surroundings in a whimsically distorted manner. Evoking a sense of dynamic motion, the wedges' tipped angles suggest forward momentum while providing both physical and visual stability to the composition.

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Interpretations of Nidum vary, inviting viewers to contemplate themes of community, support, and growth. Some may envision a collective effort to uplift and protect individuals or smaller groups, fostering an environment where all can flourish. Others may see the suspended sphere as a reservoir of potential energy, poised for action and movement. Alternatively, the symbolism of an egg nestled within a nest invites introspection, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own journey of preparation and eventual flight, or their role as caregivers nurturing loved ones. In its multifaceted meaning, Nidum serves as a testament to the interconnectedness of humanity and the boundless potential for growth and transformation.

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Artist Bio

Jon Kamrath, a distinguished public sculptor from Mahtomedi, Minnesota, showcases his mastery in large-scale public art pieces crafted from metal, wood, and clay. With notable works like "Ascension" and "Northscape," Jon's sculptures command attention with their dynamic forms and captivating presence. As Vice President for the Society of Minnesota Sculptors, he fosters artistic expression and community engagement. Jon's journey is rooted in a Master of Fine Arts from Iowa State University and a background in art education. His sculptures have earned acclaim in exhibitions and tours across the Midwest, solidifying his place as a prominent figure in the realm of public art.

 

Zodiac by Renee Zhang at Mayo Park East

Artist Statement

My artistic exploration delves into the rich tapestry of Chinese culture, weaving together the ancient symbolism of the 12 zodiac signs with the intricate artistry of paper cutting. This sculpture is meticulously crafted to represent each of the zodiac signs, as depicted in Chinese hieroglyphics, offering viewers a tangible connection totheir own birth year. Through the medium of aluminum alloy sprayed in vibrant red, a hue synonymous with auspiciousness and joy in Chinese tradition, I imbue each piece with the essence of good fortune and happiness. The sculptures, arranged in the form of a rotating color wheel, invite viewers to engage in a visual dialogue that mirrors the cyclical nature of life, symbolizing the perpetual cycle of renewal and transformation that unfolds year after year. As viewers interact with this sculpture, they are invited to contemplate the ever-changing tapestry of existence, where each revolution brings forth new beginnings and endless possibilities.

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Artist Bio

Xiaorong (Renee) Zhang, a multifaceted artist originating from China, boasts a diverse skill set encompassing sculpture, environmental design, entrepreneurship, and painting. Her extensive experience in these fields has granted her a profound comprehension of art from various angles. Notably, Xiaorong's portfolio includes over 30 sculptures adorning city squares throughout China, alongside her leadership in city sculpture planning endeavors. Since 2014, she has ventured into freelance oil painting, residing successively in Singapore for 2 years, the United States for 3 years, and Canada for 4 years. Xiaorong's artistic journey is underpinned by a Master of Architecture degree from Taiyuan University of Technology and a Bachelor of Art from Shanxi University. Recognized for her contributions, she has earned prestigious honors such as the National Best Livable Project of the Year 2000 in China, along with memberships in esteemed artistic associations spanning China, the United States, and Canada.

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Rudbeckia by Tim Adams at Silver Lake Fire Station

Artist Statement

My artistic endeavor centers around the Black-eyed Susan, a resilient prairie perennial emblematic of the vital role pollinator plants play in sustaining ecosystems. Through a monumental abstraction standing at 9 feet tall and spanning 6.5 feet wide, I aim to raise awareness of these essential plants and their contributions to habitat preservation, food provision, and cross-pollination for insects. Drawing inspiration from the Rudbeckia flower's fundamental elements, I meticulously crafted each component of the sculpture. The seed head, crafted from weathered steel, features intricate patterns cut to mimic developing seeds, while the canary yellow petals, fashioned from aluminum, flow gracefully, echoing the flower's natural form. Perforated steel leaves adorn the stem, providing a verdant contrast and mounted atop a sturdy foundation of concrete and steel. Designed not merely as a work of art but as a functional space, I envision this sculpture as a gathering point—a place for shade, photography, and communal connection, embodying the harmonious coexistence between art, nature, and humanity.

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Artist Bio

Tim Adams is a 1985 Landscape Architecture graduate of Iowa State University and is a Registered Professional Landscape Architect. Tim owned Stony Creek Landscapes, Inc., Webster City, Iowa, a full-service landscape design/build firm and is now pursuing art full-time. Tim is a lifelong student of the arts. His career has been built around creating and installing "One Off" sculptures and designs for gardens, entry features, parks, churches, municipalities, and schools. Tim's primary medium is weathered steel, stainless steel, aluminum, acrylic sheet/Lexan, and native limestone. Tim's inspiration comes from his professional training in Landscape Architecture and Horticulture plus his frequent skiing trips. Natural landforms and native plants are the starting points for Tim's sculpture concepts. To foster sustainability Tim strives to incorporate recycled metals and repurposed materials when practical. His works are designed and constructed to be stout, long-term installations with little or no maintenance needed.

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Thank you to our generous volunteers: Amarama Vercnocke, Erik Noonan, Mary Ellen Landwehr, Wayne Flock, Allison Good, Mike Nigbur

Thank you to Rochester Parks & Recreation for continued support. Thank you to our friends at We Bike Rochester for supporting this project.