The conception of the dome-like structure installed at Comstock Facility at Syracuse University started with my long interest in architecture. The structure evolved from an abstract theme of triangles that ran through my work as a printmaker. As I began to use this theme as a three dimensional entity Buckminster Fuller’s invention of the geodesic domes started to come into play. From there I began to see the 2-dimensional triangle as a pyramid and started to see my work experienced by the viewer in a more physical way.
The following photos show a step-by-step process which entailed experimenting with different materials, joints, metals and wire strength for a successful dome-like framework. Other labor included planning down raw oak lumber into small rods, creating custom made fasteners and learning first hand about the properties of what is needed to create a sound proof structure.
All my thanks to two wonderful and patient professors who let this project come to fruition, Jerome Malinowski and Lee Ducell.
1. Completed Installation
2. Beginning of conception with paper strips and cardboard
3. Model of gallery and mock-up of dome design
cut and assembled from medium weight stock board
4. Different vantage point of model in Syracuse snow
5. Interior shot of model with viewers walking through domes
6. Raw oak lumber waiting to be planed down
7. The beginning of breaking down the wood into
small rods that would eventually form the dome
8. Box of rods stripped down on a table saw in order to start assembling the dome
9. Custom designed fastener/hardware to hold the points of the pyramids together
10. A view of the interior of a pyramid fastened together with custom-made hardware
11. Studio space where all the pyramids started to stack up
12. Installation in process
13. Professors and colleagues helping with installation
14. Colleague helps fasten ends of dome to floor
15. Fastened dome
16. Myself fastening the top of the dome and bringing all four arches together
17. (Hard to see), but heavy wire strung through tips of pyramids to hold together and create tension in order for the dome to stand solidly
18. Completed assembly on view for the public and students
