Tying Line, 1996



Plaster, graphite, wax
121.92cm x 1.28cm x 81.28cm (48"x32"x32")

The piece entitled "Tying Line" exists so far only as a life-size maquette. It is made out of plaster over wire, partly covered with graphite powder. The "Tying Line" works with the idea of an imaginary waterlevel that is marked by a real object and comes into existence through an engaged encounter.

The tying line is the reassuring level that awakens one's notion of being grounded on the earth. It indicates the wrapping layer of space we are walking and moving in , the space that ties us to the world.

The movement of the tides is an ongoing process, always in transition, always on the level, projecting for us the ongoing and ever-present passing of time. The tide-line equals the horizon-line - our measure of location in space.

The presence of the sculpture will encourage one to come close, to engage - but at the same time to halt, to reconsider the approach. The viewer reflects on himself, relocating himself by recognizing his own presence in space, being immersed.

Carved in two different types of stone, the "tying line" will manifest an idea in form. Marked physically by material, the level in stone will ground the viewer psychologically as a being in the world. It allows you to look with the knees and realize that you share the space with the objects beside you.

The idea for the "Tying Line" clearly developed out of the piece "Crossing" and is further investigated in "Wading Through". Here, the viewer is able to enter the space in between two forms that work with a similar imaginary level indicated by a line that is carved into the marble forms.