Russell Papp Design

‘Ebb and Flow’ elegantly reflects the natural balance between the currents and tides, the wind and weather, and the surrounding landscapes and Gary Oaks, unique to south Oak Bay, Victoria, BC. Surrounded by these magnificent trees, and framed by the ocean, Ebb and Flow captures the tensions found in the giant branches of the Oaks, juxtaposed by the strength of the constantly changing currents just off shore. The intricacy, tension and balance of the four interwoven layers of the sculpture, counter balance, and support each other to stand, as do the heavy branches of the Gary Oak. The directional positioning of the individual segments represent the constantly changing tide. Hard angles, square edges and ridge lines symbolize the handmade, quality of nautical design, while the curvatures of the overall form capture the sensuality of the sea and her movement.

‘Between Us’ starts at the beginning. Surrounded by the forces of life, celestial bodies wind together, growing skyward, toward each other, and toward resolution. With the hope that through a strong connection to the land, to the ocean, and to each other, we will grow collectively onward, and respectfully together. The single point on which the sculpture is balanced, symbolizes the importance of connection. Tensions and anxieties both repel and attract, putting relationships to the test. The figures’ support of one another represents what is possible: navigating sensitive relationships through changing atmospheres, working together through joy and pain. The ring of life’s energy surrounds, and holds together, encouraging momentum.