photo credit James Harnois
Hortus Curiosus
2014
In collaboration with Maki Tamura
MadCampus, a project in collaboration with MadArt Seattle and the University of Washington
Concrete, Metal, Wood, Cotton, Paint
In the Cascara Circle at the Medicinal Herb Garden, Saya and Maki present concrete tree stumps of various sizes, reminiscent of old growth forest that once covered the grounds of the University of Washington. These stumps not only function as tables and benches, but also include several “grafted” branches of live plants. Echoing the wooden monkey gate on site, colorful fabric panels hang over the visitors’ heads, depicting inquisitive monkeys engaging in gardening and practicing pharmacognosy (the study of medicines derived from natural sources). Along with the petrified stumps, the installation offers a lyrical interpretation of the history of the university and garden.
Photo credit James Harnois