Client: Bask Retreat Center
Location: Centerville, TN, United States
Completion date: 2024
Artwork budget: $20,000
Project Team
Concrete
Jacob Ryan
Ryan Construction
Artist Assistants
Bask Retreat Center
Bask Retreat Center
Overview
Spanning 20 feet in width, the sculpture is composed of three sections with heights ranging from 4 to 6 feet, each shaped to reflect the natural contours of mountain ranges. The vibrant red color was chosen to echo the Red Mountains of Utah, a place that holds a special and spiritual connection for Aylin Ozgener, the visionary behind the Bask Retreat Center. Positioned on an extension of the Bask Retreat Center property, the sculpture subtly reminds visitors of the surrounding Tennessee mountains, blending with the natural environment. This piece invites engagement with its dynamic forms, encouraging a moment of reflection and connection with nature. It’s a playful exploration of wonder and curiosity, inviting guests to walk around the art piece and discover how the red color shifts with the changing light and shadows throughout the day.
Goals
Major points to hit were respecting the native elements on the 80-acre property. The sculpture is something that the owner wanted to provide an attraction for the retreat center's guests. I wanted to create something that looked good but felt good with meditative qualities.
Process
After months of planning, I created various drawings until we got the idea right. We excavated, created molds to replicate the exact construction drawings, poured concrete, and painted. The team consisted of the staff of Ryan Construction in Centerville, TN, and Bask Retreat.