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New Sculpture Takes Root on Campus

New Sculpture Takes Root on Campus

by Alisa Giardinelli
11/24/10

Steelroot
Steelroot, the newest addition to the Alice Paul and David Kemp Halls courtyard.

Steelroot, a dramatic sculpture suggesting the roots of a tree created by Pennsylvania artist Steve Tobin, arrived on campus last week and is now installed in the Alice Paul and Kemp Halls courtyard. The work is a gift to the College from a member of the Scott Arboretum who wishes to remain anonymous.

Tobin's Steelroots series, as recently described in Art Daily, is an evolution of his bronze Walking Roots, "transforming the series from naturalist to modernist, inspired in part by Asian calligraphy." However, he leaves his works open for interpretation, hoping the pieces "help people see the landscape 'again for the first time.'"

 "I'm thrilled with this addition to the campus," says Arboretum director Claire Sawyer. "Have a look for yourself."