“Hydrogen and Nitrogen”, Patinated Steel, 2012
Born in Los Angeles, California, David Kimball Anderson’s career spans over 40 years. He provided the KSAT with his own personal commentary on his piece, “Hydrogen and Nitrogen”:
First, in much of my work I repeatedly make reference to the heavens to both establish perspective and to indulge in
beauty. A clear night sky is beauty beyond my capacity to absorb. The vastness of deep space relieves me of many minor self-indulgent worries.
Hydrogen: You will notice a block of iron beneath the orb. I am fascinated with the composition and forms of matter in deep space. It is somehow all very real while all so very mysterious. I find aesthetic pleasure in the ‘space between’ things. The ‘atmosphere’, for lack of better definition, of deep space may seem void of substance. Yet ‘void’ is quite real. “Hydrogen” represents the visceral of deep space.
“Nitrogen” is the basis of alive matter here on our planet. The connectedness of the complexities of deep space and earth is complete without interference. To view the mineral makeup of, say, granite on earth (or fall leaves) and the makeup of a certain gaseous composition within a distant galaxy is direct. We are privileged to live at this intense
close range to the ever-moving physical events on Earth. We are an extraordinary planet. …but, of course, aren’t they all!”
The pedestals for the two orbs were inspired by a 17th century Italian table and an 18th century French table, prized antiques in the collection of the Chicago Art Institute. Thus the elegance of the pedestals reinforces the
beauty of the elements to the artist.