Description of work: “Birds of a Feather” is a large natural, densely woven cage structure, made from willow vines, which supports nearly two hundred colorful clay birds created by children. Representing inclusiveness on several levels, (physical, mental, racial, societal) the birds are created by children from differing backgrounds as a metaphor for being either caged or free, based on their interpretation of Maya Angelou’s “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.” Though apparently fragile like societal structures, the branches are also strong, and birds are displayed both inside and outside of the cage. The sculpture could be indoor or outdoor, free-standing with a tree that is interwoven to become part of the cage, or suspended from the ceiling or branch of a very large tree. Approximate size is 8 to 10 feet but will adapt to the space. The vines could be coated with liquid plastic and painted bronze for permanence, or left in their natural state. |