All design struggles with the dichotomy between a human desire for control over our environment versus natural forces, and this project attempts to embody that struggle.

Gilbert Road Venue is a 5,000 sq. ft. public-art installation plaza containing a 1,200 sq. ft. open-air canopy designed for a variety of uses such as public gatherings, farmer's markets, music acts, or simply as a shady spot to wait for the train or bus. The shade canopy is designed around a three-dimensional 20-foot grid that is penetrated by cylindrical forms arranged based on various solar positions. Twelve light “cannons” are arranged to cast light through drawings onto the plaza paving below. Each cannon “fires” sunlight at specific times and days, making each display special if/when you happen to catch the occurrence.

We visited four local schools and asked students to share their favorite experiences in our region. Swimming, hiking, lakes, Grand Canyon, outer space, mathematics, recess, riding in a fast car, sunlight, the moon, music, and spending time on technological devices were the main responses. The artist transformed their answers into the drawings at the bottom of the cannons.

The entire canopy and plaza are designed utilizing Biophilic Design principles (for example: Stephen R. Kellert’s writings), attempting to create positive effects through the understanding of how humans have an evolved connection to nature.