Can metal breathe? Here at the Trace Sculpture by Nancy Graves, it almost seems so. The sculpture itself isn’t breathing of course. But its massive Corten steel and aluminum form evokes a sense of life, of movement frozen in time. Trace is a truly imposing work, a giant at 192 by 214 by 120 inches. The sculpture is made of two main parts, a large base and a top section often described as a “cloud.” Both are made of the same materials, painted with urethane. Even though it isn’t currently on view, imagining its presence here is still captivating. The rust-colored Corten steel interacts with the elements, changing over time. It leaves a trace of its own existence on the environment. This dynamic quality gives the sculpture a life beyond its static form. It reminds us that even seemingly permanent things are subject to the forces of nature. The sheer scale of Trace is also remarkable. Think of it. The base alone weighs over a ton and a half. The “cloud” section weighs another 1500 pounds. Together, they create a sense of monumentality. It is a tribute to the enduring power of art, a trace of the artist’s vision left for us to contemplate.
Tujunga Spreading Grounds
Hidden in plain sight, the Tujunga Spreading Grounds is more than just a patch of land. It’s a hidden reservoir,