Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Bob Irwin, who I worked with at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles, called me up after that project was done with another venture for me. He said he was going to have several large installations at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) and they needed seating. He envisioned some circular benches, reminiscent of old train station benches, but with a contemporary edge to them in a light durable wood. He provided me with some rough sketches. He allowed me to make changes in the dimensions and curves so that they would be comfortable, and have continuous lines to add a simple beauty to the benches. I suggested Northern Hard Maple for the wood. I then proceeded to draw full-scale drawings, by hand as I usually do, for Bob's approval. 

The simplicity of the design doesn't reveal the complexity of the compound curved ends on the benches. Working on such a complicated project might sound daunting to most, but I love it. For me the more challenging a project is, the better. These benches were made especially for Bob Irwin's exhibition, and are currently in storage with his art, for future showings. I have been informed that it is a possibility they will be used this summer, as seating in the museum, for another exhibition. They are very beautiful benches, a mix of contemporary and traditional design, pleasing to look at and comfortable to sit on. When they are exhibited again, I will post it on my blog. I would love to hear that you went to see the latest artwork at the MCASD and that you were able to relax for a moment on the benches I built.