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Description:
In this project, several elements are integrated into the overall
site-plan of a retail development. These elements include a domed
shade structure, a fountain, an enhanced path, enhanced perimeter
walls, seating and extended patio. The signature feature,
Arborescent Dome, is a shade structure situated at the
intersection of Priest Drive and Washington Street.
The inner
supports of the green dome are vaulted and branched-like tree limbs.
The surface of the dome is cut in the abstracted pattern of a tree
canopy viewed in silhouette. The water feature, Fountain of
Gathered Waters, is shaped like a gate-valve box like those used
throughout the valley’s canal system. The fountain is topped with an
actual valve handle that free-wheels, with which children can play.
The perimeter walls are configured like an ancient Indian ruin,
reminiscent of the Hohokom site nearby. All the elements: dome,
fountain and seating are clad in Yavapai Coral stone whose pink
color makes reference to the exposed rock of the Papago Buttes.
Funding:
The project was funded through city of Tempe Capital Improvement
Project Percent for Art funds.
Artist biography:
Thomas
Strich was born and raised in California. He received a double B.A.
degree in Studio Art and Art Theory from the University of
California, Santa Cruz and received an M.F.A. degree in Sculpture
from Arizona State University. Strich has been an Arizona-based
artist since 1990, and since 1995 he has been applying his skills as
a mixed media artist and photographer toward urban planning
processes and public art projects. He has completed public art and
private development projects for the city of Tempe, city of Phoenix
and the Town of Queen Creek. He has also been on selection panels
for public art projects. Through his contributions to numerous
public art projects, Strich has been dedicated to making his art
input integrally shape the development, design and meaning of these
projects.
Artist statement:
“For
this project, I looked to the surrounding landscape for inspiration.
This project site is in close proximity to the Salt River, the
Papago Buttes and the headquarters for the Salt River Project. The
Papago Hills Retail Court is situated across the street from two
large office complexes, providing them with restaurants, a coffee
bar and a light-rail station. Arborescent Dome was designed
as a portal for pedestrian traffic into the site and as a shaded
resting place, and it also provides workers and commuters with a
respite surrounded by trees that serves as a reminder of
the
native desert environment of Papago Park. At the other end of the
path, the sound and sight of flowing water from the fountain pays
homage to SRP, which has played an important role in providing water
to both the rural and urban landscapes of our region.” |
