Of a Leaf or a Feather
Artist
Norie Sato
Year2015
Classification
sculpture
Medium
stainless steel
Dimensions19 x 31 x 88 ft. (579.1 x 944.8 x 2682.1 cm)
Credits
Commissioned through the Art in Architecture Program
Fine Arts Collection
U.S. General Services Administration
Fine Arts Collection
U.S. General Services Administration
- Norie Sato created this nearly 90-foot-long sculptural installation for the southbound pedestrian pathway at the San Ysidro U.S. Land Port of Entry. Of a Leaf or a Feather consists of 39 unique, stainless steel mesh elements that are sited along the path at varied orientations. Some of the elements arc over the path, while others open outward. Viewed as a whole, the artwork introduces organic curves and graceful lines, and serves as a counterpoint to the angled geometry of the walkway. Sato was inspired by the idea of protection when designing Of a Leaf or a Feather, and sought to create an artwork that would soften and humanize the site. The individual elements take their shape from the leaves of the indigenous agave plant, as well as the feathers of the American bald eagle. The arching shapes combine to create an overall canopy-like form that provides a sense of shelter for those walking to Mexico. The dynamic play of shadows cast by the artwork and the light filtering through and bouncing off its stainless steel surfaces create ever-changing experiences for those walking beneath the sculpture.
