Untitled

Christopher Sproat's untitled neon sculpture provides liveliness and elegance to the entrance of the Madison Federal Courthouse. The red and blue building, fondly known as the "blue building" has a work of art that complements and energizes to the exterior.

The red-orange neon sculpture consists of two components: an arc, which is attached to the stainless-steel ceiling, and an inverted conical chandelier-like structure.  The arc, 60 feet in diameter, consists of four neon tubes, each two inches apart, and creates an inviting response due to the shape.  The inverted conical shape or chandelier consists of five tiers, each one foot apart, and measures a total of ten feet in diameter, which draws the viewer's eye upward.

With a combination of these geometric elements and red-orange color, Sproat has produced a minimal type of work, and the neon lights endow the sculpture with a contemporary feel.  The bright, glowing light draws viewers' attention to the building and sculpture.  This light serves as an aesthetic element and also provides a sense of security to the dark entrance.  Sproat used the stainless-steel ceiling as a reflector, which provides an additional dimension to the work.

With more than 700 feet of tubing, Sproat's sculpture enhances the modern building.  Although the composition appears simple, it is energetic and thoughtful.  The sculpture provides one with the feeling of warmth and curiosity due to its glowing red-orange light.