“Cadence”, crafted from steel, thoughtfully combines abstraction and architectural representation in sculptural form.
The simplified forms are recognizable yet offer layered iconographic and architectural references to the Waco downtown skyline. The composition is carefully balanced with geometric shapes and patterns that pay homage to Waco’s most celebrated landmarks in an rhythmic and meaningful way.
Testimony
My creative journey began with immersive exploration of Waco’s downtown landscape. Through deliberate walks and drives through the urban core, I studied the architectural vocabulary that defines this Texas city. My focus gravitated toward the upper reaches of buildings—those often-overlooked details that crown structures with character and historical significance. These elevated elements became my visual library, each unique pattern serving as a potential landmark identifier that could anchor the community’s collective memory in sculptural form.
The research phase revealed six distinctive elements that embody Waco’s identity: Baylor’s iconic Rosenbalm fountain and domed buildings, the commanding presence of The Alico Building, the natural sanctuary of Cameron Park, the flowing Brazos River, the historic Waco Bridge, and the cultural landmark of Magnolia. Through careful abstraction, I translated these recognizable forms into deconstructed geometric shapes—maintaining their essential character while creating a unified visual language. As an additional layer of meaning, I incorporated subtle hidden forms representing the hotel itself, creating an opportunity for exploration between the artwork and its setting.
The 18-foot sculpture demanded both artistic vision and engineering precision. I approached the scale challenge by dividing the composition into three manageable sections, each designed to work independently while contributing to the overall narrative. The fabrication process began with plasma cutting, which allowed for clean, precise edges that would define the sculpture’s sharp geometric aesthetic.
Hand-finishing with a industrial paint achieved the desired warm dark brown color —a deliberate choice that honors the Ballroom's existing design palette while ensuring the sculpture feels integrated rather than imposed upon its environment.
Understanding that permanent installation requires both security and accessibility, I designed a custom french cleat mounting system distributed across the three large sections. This approach not only made the installation process manageable but also created a reliable, invisible support structure that allows the sculpture to appear to float effortlessly against the wall—emphasizing the artwork's dynamic forms while maintaining the clean aesthetic essential to the space.
Testimony
