Stone and earth combine to form The Source a sculpture that interacts with water. The Source was created by sculptor John Hoge. It was installed in Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island in 1980. The Source is more than just an earthwork. It is a statement about the cyclical process of water.
Let’s delve into the fascinating details of The Source. Hoge’s online portfolio offers insight. The Source is an earth and stone sculpture. It stands three feet high. It stretches 140 feet wide and 220 feet deep. Lake water is recycled through the sculpture abstracting water’s cyclical journey.
Time has definitely left its mark on The Source. Aerial photos from 1980 show sharply defined grass embankments. Today those embankments are rounded and worn. The softening is due to longer grass, compaction and settling over the years. Luther Burbank Park is Mercer Island’s primary park. The Source has benefited from consistent care.
Hoge himself offers valuable insight into his artistic approach. He prefers natural materials. Stone and earth products are his favorites. Hoge is drawn to the naturally occurring characteristics of stones. He enhances and abstracts natural shapes through direct carving. Textural gradations and stone polishes create transitions. These blend natural and worked surfaces.
The Source distinguishes itself from other earthworks. Lorna Jordan Waterworks Garden and Herbert Bayer Mill Creek Canyon Earthworks were integrated into water management systems. Robert Morris’ Untitled Earthwork reclaims land. The Source uses land to create art inspired by its setting. It also references ancient earthworks.
The King County Arts Commission heavily promoted public art projects when The Source was built. Hoge documented and liaised with Herbert Bayer during the construction of the Mill Creek Canyon earthwork. While Hoge is not as famous as Robert Morris, The Source is still a great piece. It fits perfectly into its environment. It was clearly constructed for it.
The form of The Source is fantastic. Whorls end in a basin with steps leading up to it. A stone-lined channel runs down to Lake Washington. Embankments surround the stones evoking prehistoric structures. These structures resemble grass-covered mounds. A small stone offset from the central structure evokes Stonehenge’s heelstone.
The Source cleverly abstracts the cyclical process of water. It blends art and nature. It encourages reflection on the relationship between the two. The Source embodies Hoge’s artistic vision. It represents his connection to the earth. It offers a serene space for contemplation within Luther Burbank Park. Take a moment to appreciate the artistry and environmental message. The Source provides a unique experience that connects us to the land and water.