The word Metamorphosis originates from the Ancient Greek (μεταμόρφωση) meaning ‘transformation’. While the sculptures evoke organic forms in a state of suspended transformation or evolution, the specific material arrangement of the spheres suggests a deeper story related to geography and cultural diversity.
The Metamorphosis sculptures consist of stacked spherical forms that precariously transform, evolve and dematerialize as they grow towards the sky. The lower spheres are generally heavy and solid, while the upper portions of each sculpture are open, ephemeral and amorphous
Metamorphosis at Potrero Gateway
The word Metamorphosis originates from ancient Greek (μεταμορφώσεις) meaning ‘transformations’. The Potrero Gateway sculptures consist of four stacked spherical figures which emerge from the terraced gardens located on either side of the 101 Freeway. The sculptures transform and dematerialize into intricate lattices as they grow towards the sky. The uppermost forms were computationally derived and evoke the microscopic cell structures of radiolaria and other organic sea forms that would have been found at this location as late as 1850. Prior to urbanization the site was on the marshy shoreline of Mission Bay which would have been teeming with mollusks and other sea creatures.
Date: In Progress - Installation in Fall 2024
Location: 17th Street b/w San Bruno and Vermont Streets, San Francisco, CA
Lead Artists: Jason Kelly Johnson & Nataly Gattegno (Futureforms)
Artist Team: Jason Kelly Johnson, Nataly Gattegno with Carlos Sabogal, Brian McKinney, Natalie Abbott, Chris Leo, Conrad Scheepers and Ki Schmidt.
Commissioned By: Potrero Gateway Park (a non-profit community group) working with the San Francisco Arts Commission
Process
Metamorphosis at Various Sites
The Metamorphosis sculptures can be configured to respond to the specific parameters of a site’s location or a client’s particular material interests or historic background. The sculpture’s size, formal arrangement and materiality are all parameters that can be explored. Internal lighting may be add to amplify the patterns onto neighboring surfaces. The sculptures may be placed indoors or outdoors.
Each spherical material also has a geographical story to tell, For example, within a single sculpture you might find stone from southern Europe, carbon steel from the Americas, ceramic elements from North Africa, stainless steel from Eastern Europe or Asia. Each element’s physical form and material narrative supports and builds upon the other.
Date: 2023-Present | Details: Each sculpture is original. All are custom made, site and/or material specific. The welded upper portions are typically fabricated using marine-grade 316 stainless steel that is electropolished.
Lead Artists: Jason Kelly Johnson & Nataly Gattegno (Futureforms)
