Workers prepare the site in the west plaza of the Municipal Building for the upcoming installation of the ‘Solar Tree’ sculpture. Photo by Carol Clark/ladailypost.com

Equipment arrives to prepare the west plaza for the ‘Solar Tree’ installation. Photo by Carol Clark/ladailypost.com

COUNTY News:

Work is underway in the west plaza of the Los Alamos County Municipal Building to prepare for the upcoming installation of the “Solar Tree” sculpture created by artist Eric Thelander.

“Solar Tree” is an 18’ x 12’ x 12’ steel and aluminum sculpture designed with solar components above the leaves to create a self-lighting electrically powered piece that encourages public participation through ports for electrical devices and tables and benches beneath the tree.

Artist Eric Thelander holds a model of his winning ‘Solar Tree’ steel and aluminum sculpture. Courtesy/LAC

The Art in Public Places Board unanimously selected “Solar Tree” from among top finalists in a competition. As part of its process to select the winning creation, the Board hosted a special event to give the public the opportunity to view the work of three finalists in the competition. Members of the Board were on hand to discuss the artists’ maquettes, answer questions and take suggestions. Comment cards also were available for written public comments. Following the open house, the APP Board took additional feedback for a week through the County’s on-line Open Forum.

The Los Alamos County Council also approved the Board’s recommendation.

Workers examine a large hole created to house the base of the new sculpture. Photo by Carol Clark/ladailypost.com

Equipment for the ‘Solar Tree’ installation. Photo by Chris Clark/ladailypost.com