Stella synthesizes aspects of negative space, moiré patterns and kinetic art to honor and expand a local icon.

The sculpture consists of parallel planes consisting of square outlines, each of which holds 40 radians extending inward. Though physically static, Stella is fundamentally a kinetic artwork, one activated by the motion of the viewer.

Moiré patterns are created when motorists and pedestrians observe the artwork while traveling along US Route 1 / Main Street. From distance perspectives the rods resolve into a star shape.

In Madawaska the star is usually associated with Acadian culture, but it accommodates a host of additional historical, political, religious and agrarian interpretations. Individuals bring their own perspectives to it.

Stella doesn’t quote this familiar form as much as reinvents it, extending a visual invitation to consider the symbol anew. Instead of looking at a star, we optically create it, seeing through the void to blue skies, grey skies, and heavenly night skies, connecting the terrestrial to the celestial.

Dimensions: 30’ high / 17’ 7” wide / 4’ 7” deep on 13’ pedestal
Fabrication: Bob’s Welding, Central Falls, RI
CAD modeling: Mowry Studio, Denver, CO
Engineering: Colby Company, Portland, ME
Lighting: LAM Partners, Cambridge, MA
Commissioned by: The Art In Architecture Program, General Services Administration