The Doors, Donald Lipski, 2007
SERVICES PROVIDED: Design coordination, Materials research, Budget management, Engineering coordination and oversight, Fabricator bid process, Fabrication oversight, Lighting design development, Shipping, Installation services, Scheduling, Project close-out.
The Doors is a three-story-tall structure that acts as a giant walk-in kaleidoscope in Scottsdale, AZ. Due to the tilt of the planes, a miraculous virtual sphere of sky hovers at the apex simulating the experience of being inside a kaleidoscope. Artist Donald Lipski partnered with Denver-based sound artist Jim Green who created a sound element entitled Sound Passage that visitors experience once inside the kaleidoscopic structure. Visitors can listen to found sounds such as the Soleri bells at Cosanti, and a variety of mysterious aural selections including watery swishes, melodious vocals, and cadenced percussion. Green’s selections also include recordings from a flute performance of Sedona recording artist Jesse Kalu. These enigmatic audio elements mitigate the noise of passing traffic, creating a truly contemplative experience that Green calls a “sound massage”.
The sculpture marks the entrance to downtown Scottsdale and is sited at a high-traffic corner. “It’s meant to really make an impact as people drive by, but it will also be a unique experience people can get from walking up to it, and hopefully encourage you to come back,” Lipski said.
The placard contains a William Blake quotation: "If the doors of Perception were cleansed, everything would appear to man as it is, infinite."
This work is comprised of Ipe (Brazilian Hardwood), structural steel, thousands of hand-forged stainless steel rivets and strapping, mirror polished stainless steel, and l.e.d. lights, 29' x 12' x 12'. The Doors was commissioned by Starwood Capital Group, LLD, Golub & Company, and IDM Properties in cooperation with the Scottsdale Public Art Program, and gifted to the City of Scottsdale upon its dedication.
Select text and images from Donald Lipski: donaldlipski.net and Scottsdale Public Art: scottsdalepublicart.org