3.
Almost four years ago I was contracted by the Lake Forest School District (Chicago, IL) to assist with the design implementation of a new 21st century technology library space at Deerpath Middle School. Working alongside a team at the architectural firm Perkins + Will, I developed specifications for finishes and collaborative, flexible furniture (translated as basically filling the amazing space with the pieces necessary to complete this highly functional space where students create movies in a green screen room, collaborate on high tech projects and receive technology help at their own "Genius Bar").
The space opened with amazing press coverage and fanfare from the community. The students and teachers were incredibly energized with the new environment … but in my mind it wasn't yet complete.
My friend and renowned artist, Rene Schuler and I spoke about the Deerpath Cube project. Our sons both attend the school so there were occasions where it was naturally brought up in conversation. We discussed a potential commission to cover a large 15 foot wall that would punctuate the already-exciting space. What an amazing dichotomy: the most sophisticated technology environment to host commissioned fine art!
Could this be possible?
For the four months that followed, Rene spent time in Paris to work on her art and develop some concepts for our mural. The theme in the Cube (C3), creativity, collaboration and communication, would ideally be conveyed in this new piece. Our students work independently and in tandem with others. With such focus on technology today, we asked ourselves, “are we really connecting or are we just virtually together?” This was the challenge.