Vessel - Seattle, WA - Abstract Public Sculptures on Waymarking.com

Vessel towers four stories high at the center of Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center where it serves as an airy hub to the surrounding buildings and landscape. Artist Ed Carpenter was mindful of the important research undertaken on the campus and the emotions of patients, doctors and researchers. He describes the artwork as a basket of light, encompassing excellence of research and hope for healing. The elegant, monumental artwork at the front door of the Hutchinson Center is a testament to artistic vision and craftsmanship.

Carpenter is known for his meticulous use of stainless steel and dichroic glass in the service of architecture. The innovative framework of Vessel uses metal and laminated glass to achieve both lightness and structural integrity. The opening form of Vessel in its upward reach is dramatically lit at night. By day the changing light and weather of the Puget Sound region are reflected in its surfaces. Native plantings complement the artwork; honeysuckle vines will climb the structure over time.

4Culture managed the invitational selection of proposals in conjunction with the Center’s art committee and was consulted during installation. The commission was made possible by a gift from the family of a former Center scientist who specified that the funds be used for the creation of outdoor art.

I found another website that contains wonderful pictures and writeup of this sculpture here.

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