Heather Gibb--"Ribbon River"

Project #4: Public Art Proposal

“Ribbon River” is the sculpture I propose to enliven the barren site just west of the water tower at MiraCosta College. It is made of semi-transparent urethane poured over painted, paper-thin cedar and is mounted on a black base. The unique combination of materials serves as a tribute to artist Ursula von Rydingsvard and is inspired by her bonnet sculpture, “Damski Czepek”.
“Ribbon River” is a celebration of the openness and naturalness of the MiraCosta College campus and culture. Its organic shape loosely twists into a figure-eight and presents the paradox of a river running vertically, straight up to the sky. It alludes to the vital element inside the tower and symbolizes eternal life. Moreover, the sculpture’s semi-transparent appearance and the interplay of its positive and negative shapes incorporate the outer surroundings. These qualities reflect the campus culture and environment. MiraCosta is all about naturalness and openness. There are many “breathing spaces”—park-like oases with native and exotic plants and trees—around the campus. The buildings are light earth-tones and the sculptures are natural shapes. Then there is the relatively open structure of the junior college system which allows students to go at their own pace, or flow.
“Ribbon River” is harmonious with the mood and atmosphere of MiraCosta College. It would be a valuable addition to its sculpture collection.
-Heather Gibb