String of light that connects all things
A Series of Temporary Installations Along the California Coastline
Kate Mueller is an environmental installation artist who explores light and space using simple geometric forms that reference constellations.
These temporary pop-up installations will consist of four to seven pieces each. The simple geometric forms are made of lightweight welded steel. The elegant and feminine nature of these pieces allows them to be what they are. They do not obscure the horizon; rather, they invite viewers to approach and see a perhaps already familiar view of the ocean framed in a new perspective, drawing awareness to the changing environment.
Each piece weighs approximately 24–40 pounds, with dimensions not exceeding 10 feet in any direction. The untreated steel does not negatively impact the environment.
Working with the day's ocean tide, the pieces are installed in the early afternoon and removed at dusk.
Installation requires no invasive construction equipment. Kate Mueller uses her body weight to embed the base of each piece 12 inches into the sand and sinks the cross-support beams just below the surface to conceal them.
Each temporary pop-up installation is conducted with the permission of the appropriate city channels.
String of Light That Connects All Things
This series explores the interconnectedness of all things. The steel structures I create echo the geometric forms found in places of ritual. Like Stonehenge and Mnajdra, ancient temples built to align with the stars, my work explores the relationship between form and the space it occupies. Ultimately, my work celebrates the human tradition of looking up at the stars, seeking connection, and recognizing the interconnectedness of the human spirit.
All moments are fleeting. This beach installation series offers the opportunity to meditate on all that 'a moment' holds, in concert with all elements.
Installed in the mid-afternoon, with the bright sun overhead, the art pieces cast dramatic, dark-lined shadows in the sand, recalling ancient sundial structures like Stonehenge. Later, set against the backdrop of the setting sun, these pieces become silhouetted, they facilitate a meditative practice on the interplay of figure and ground. Depending on the day, viewers observe the tide rising or falling. The wet sand creates a mirroring effect that changes and moves with one's point of view. Footprints in the sand, a sailboat passing on the horizon, birds flying into view are all part of the expression of a brief moment in time and space.
The monthly release of a new steel sculptures references the star points of a constellations that can be seen in our night sky. The steel structure on the right side of this image is constructed to have the the upright post correspond with the position on the (4) stars that make up the constellation of Aries.
Come see Aries in March 2025
Please join my mailing list to receive the time and location of the next beach installation.
This series will take place over 2025-2026