Client: University of South Florida Botanical Garden

Overview

Tendril: Merging Nature and Technology at Tampa International Airport

“Tendril” is a permanent installation at Tampa International Airport, showcasing our foundry’s expertise in fabricating complex art that seamlessly blends nature with advanced technology. Spanning 3.6 x 10.7 x 12.50 meters, the installation features flexible LED screens shaped like ribbons, designed to wrap around a metal structure that we meticulously crafted. This structure, integral to the central Airside F space, supports the artist’s vision of vines reclaiming human-made spaces. The LED screens display generative animations of native Florida vines, offering an ever-evolving visual experience for travelers. Our close collaboration with the artist and the University of South Florida Botanical Garden ensured an accurate representation of the local flora, highlighting our commitment to integrating art with the surrounding environment.

Developed in collaboration with the University of South Florida Botanical Garden, “Tendril” spans 3.6 x 10.7 x 12.50 meters and combines flexible LED screens, computers, generative programming, real-time data, and a metal structure to bring this dynamic vision to life.

Goals

Our primary goal in collaborating on the "Tendril" project was to support the artist’s vision by providing technical expertise and innovative fabrication solutions. By closely working with the artist, we were able to create the metal structure that forms the backbone of the installation, ensuring that the flexible LED screens could be seamlessly integrated into the design. The project aimed to transform a functional transit space into a dynamic environment that connects travelers with the natural world.

The integration of "Tendril" into the airport’s design was essential, as it served to soften the industrial feel of the terminal while enhancing the overall aesthetic and experiential quality of the space. Our foundry's role was crucial in realizing the complex technical aspects of the piece, from crafting the metal framework to ensuring the LED screens functioned flawlessly within the installation. This project underscores the importance of collaboration in public art and our dedication to pushing the boundaries of art fabrication to create meaningful and impactful works.