Birmingham Barns

The installation is comprised of three miniature barn-like structures located along a sidewalk approaching the fire station. Approximately five feet in height, the steel outline of each sculpture is constructed like a two-dimensional perspective drawing of a common barn style found in the immediate community. Atop each piece is a set of ceramic tiles, reminiscent of the rusted color of southern barns. The surface treatment of the handmade tiles incorporates text, maps and aerial imagery that correspond to the immediate area.
The installation pays homage to the disappearing vernacular architecture of the Birmingham community— namely the barn, shed, and back-house. By acknowledging the changing land use of the area— the rapid shift from a rural community to suburban space, the barn-like structures serve as models, shrines, and didactic markers. Coincidentally, two old barns that were visible from the fire station have both been razed since the artwork was installed.