Can a tree be made of steel? Here at the Olympic Sculpture Park stands Split. It is a sculpture that challenges our perception of nature and art.
Split is the creation of American artist Roxy Paine. Born in 1966, Paine is known for his thought-provoking sculptures. He lives and works in Brooklyn and Treadwell, NY.
This graceful, towering tree is made of stainless steel. Split is not just a random artistic expression. It evolved from a detailed analysis of a tree’s structure. Paine reconstructed its composition using drawings, computer diagrams, and architectural renderings.
The Split sculpture comprises steel pipes of more than 20 different diameters. Its heavy industrial plates support approximately 5,000 pounds of cantilevered branches. The sculpture is approximately 15.24 m (50 ft) tall.
Look closely. You will see that the two main branches diverge. This split in direction enhances its natural appearance. Though made of steel, Split sometimes hosts real birds. Crows can occasionally be seen resting on its branches.
Paine created Split in 2003. He said it mimics how we increasingly experience nature. Everything is treated like an element in a machine. Paine is interested in our desire to control nature. He wants to make it fit into factory processes.
Roxy Paine’s Split reflects its surroundings. It poses the question: What is nature and what is art? Split is camouflaged in the natural setting and light.
The Olympic Sculpture Park transformed a nine-acre industrial site. It became an open and vibrant green space for art. The park offers incredible views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Admission is free.
Split invites us to reflect on our relationship with the environment. It encourages us to consider the impact of industry on the natural world. Take a moment to appreciate the artistry and message behind Split.