Client: City of Minneapolis

Overview

Constellation is make up of over 1000 unique hand-made resin, metal, and glass sculptures representing the diverse departments and individuals of the Minneapolis Public Service Building. Inspired by the Milky Way, Constellation is a translucent network of colors with clusters of dark and light sculptures that gently undulate along a 28-foot span. The sculptures are attached to metal panels by neodymium magnet. Four kinds of lighting elements interact with the sculptures at specific intervals to create and array of subtle and luminous experiences. Viewers can watch for the Big and Little Dipper star formations to light up independently. The ideas behind Constellation were guided by the Health and Regulatory Services staff, their shared commitment to civic dedication, and their collective goal to make Minneapolis a better, safer and more vibrant city.

Goals

The City of Minneapolis had a goal of creating a new Public Service Building in downtown Minneapolis that would contain several permanent public artworks that would be accessible to everyone in the community. The design and concept of Constellation was inspired by the employees that work and frequent the space and also designed to create a sense of peace and tranquility as they go about their day.

Process

The collaboration between the City of Minneapolis, Architectural Firm - Henning Larsen, MSR Design, Lighting Consultants - Schuler Shook, FORMFROMFORM, and myself was a three year project. Because the building was being built as I was creating the artwork, collaboration and communication were key. I worked most closely with Atom Pechman at FORMFROMFORM. He translated my vision for perforated, removable, metal panels that would accommodate over 1000 sculptures hanging from neodymium magnets into life. We had one week to install this 3000 pound luminous artwork so my electricians and installation team were essential in making this a success.