Conduit to Jupiter
- 1700 S Main St., Science Building off of 9th Street. Goshen College, Goshen, IN 46526
Conduit to Jupiter
Artist: Orion Blaha
Information: Created in 2021-22; measures 8 feet by 4 feet; weighs 300 pounds; made of welded steel, natural stone, and found machine parts
Description: This sculpture is the culmination of several techniques that have been developing and the first in what is planned to be a series as the idea is further developed. It is to be an exciting and evocative object that will inspire conversation and tickle the viewer’s imagination. The sculpture should evoke something otherworldly yet familiar. It is an interface between the Earth and the depths of space. The viewer can appreciate its structure and form while imagining how it might work. The hope is that “Conduit to Jupiter” can encourage others to dream about the stars. Floating rocks have been part of Orion’s body of work since his time at Goshen College. Suspending the stones always has some engineering challenges and this sculpture is no exception. Finding the right balance and aesthetic of the legs and structural integrity will be part of the process and informs the final shape. The antenna will be composed of inflated steel forms that add a degree of chaos and mystery to the piece. Orion will leverage that unexpected element along with the natural forms of the stone against the rigid engineered look of the legs and supporting components. As the piece takes shape further decoration will be added as the opportunity presents itself.
For sale: TBD
About the artist: Orion takes inspiration from the machines that he maintains and the aesthetics of science fiction and heavy industry. He works to combine this with a fascination with the natural world by coupling science and engineering with the chaotic beauty of nature. Orion has developed this aesthetic focus over the last 12 years.