Query: Geodes

Danny Shechtman’s recent Nobel Prize in chemistry for quasicrystal discovery was electrifying.  The Penrose tile pattern beneath the chair is made with sand sifted over tiles to reveal the spaces between the tiles.  Penrose tile patterns are aperiodic in a manner similar to quasicrystals.  The form of the pattern, a large question mark, reflects the base of inquiry common to scientists, artists, and humanists, and expresses doubt and hope.

Each of the Geodes on the chair includes nine substances in a porcelain package; gold leaf was applied after firing.  This piece addresses issues related to these: blood (aids, ethnic cleansing); salt (salary, oceans); gold (currency, mining); air (environmental degradation); soil (contamination, ownership); DNA (cloning, overpopulation); corn (bio-fuels, food); oil (energy, fertilizer); and water (access, supply).  We have exploited each to great benefit but with challenging consequences.