Solar Sycamore

The Watermark Artists’ Collective newest project, Solar Sycamore, is the result of a collaboration with Art Spaces and Indiana State University. The sculpture is the second public art installation conceived and designed by this group of professional artists all of whom live and work in the Wabash Valley.

The impetus behind Solar Sycamore was to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of Indiana State University’s Recycle Center and to celebrate the University’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and renewable resources. Located near the northeast entrance to the campus, this work is a concrete sycamore leaf with a pervious concrete bed that lights up at night and glows in a variety of changing patterns. Although the color of the lights can be easily changed, for the most part they will shine in “Sycamore Blue” and serve as a lively icon for the university.

Nearby, solar panels provide electricity to the power grid, which lights the sculpture. This system provides an estimated energy savings of 1,414 kilowatts per hour, or more than $28,000 in savings over a 50-year span. Materials and approaches such as those found Solar Sycamore have practical application for both businesses and individuals. A proven and time-tested source of renewable energy, solar power has the capacity to power homes, businesses and – now – art!

Members of the Watermark Collective who were active in the creation of Solar Sycamore include Rod Bradfield, John Davidson, David Erickson, Bruce Fiscus, Jo Anne Fiscus, John Gardner, Rob Ksiadz, Nancy Nichols-Pethick, Petra Nyendick, and Todd Stokes. All of the artists are active professionally in their own work and endeavors.

Additional Information:

Concrete, pervious concrete, polycarbonate, LED light fixtures, wi-fi controller, solar panels, sun, 2015
1′ high, 30′ wide, 35′ deep

Located on the campus of Indiana State University at the corner of 11th and Chestnut Streets.

Watermark Artists’ Collective includes: Rod Bradfield, John Davidson, David Erickson, Bruce Fiscus, Jo Anne Fiscus, John Gardner, Rob Ksiadz, Nancy Nichols-Pethick, Petra Nyendick and Todd Stokes.

Art Spaces gratefully acknowledges: