TOTEMIC
Tempe Beach Park, Hayden Ferry, and Marina Heights Light Rail Stations, Tempe, Arizona, USA. 2022

Aluminum, rusted steel, lighting.
Nine sculptures, 14’-16’H x 5’W each

Totemic is composed of a series of nine iconic sculptures, inspired by the forms of the wild flora that bloom yearly in the adjacent Hayden Butte Preserve. Installed through the Valley Metro light rail public art program, the sculptures provide the conceptual intersection between the built environment and nature. The aluminum sculptures correlate to the marina locale adjacent to Tempe town lake and the Marina Heights office development-- the single largest office development deal in Arizona history. The rusted sculptures are inspired by the distinctive rock formations of the Hayden Butte Mountain. The intricate perforations of each distinct piece are inspired by natural patterns cast by evolving shadows throughout the day. The artwork is illuminated in the evening to create a welcoming placemaking feature for each station around the clock.

Commissioned by Valley Metro, Phoenix, Arizona.

Fabrication: Stephen Kimble, Tucson, Arizona.
Renders: Katie McCann for Barbara Grygutis Sculpture LLC.
Photo Credit: Barbara Grygutis Sculpture LLC.