- Philip A. Robinson Jr.
- Dendrochronology in Hedera Helix: I
- Black Walnut, Padauk, Cherry, Black Ebony, Gold Leaf, Metal, Stainless Steel, Walnut Frame
- 50.25 x 33.75 x 3 in
Historically, Oregon was once home to indigenous tribes who were responsible stewards of its fertile lands and forests. In the 1930’s Oregon became the nation's top lumber producer, while actively restricting Black Americans in its own constitution.
As a multi-racial, bi-coastal artist living in Portland, Robinson reflected on the historical inaccessibility of lumber, noting that only a century ago sourcing wood locally would have been nothing short of impossible. His use of local, as well as global resources is designed to honor Native Oregonians, while also acknowledging and honoring Black Americans.
He has championed efforts to foster unity among individuals from diverse backgrounds, as well as social classes. By encouraging contemplation, discussion, and reflection upon the same pieces of artwork he is also challenging racial disparities.
In addition, Robinson adds layers of history into these works by using dendrochronology, which is the science or technique of dating events, environmental change, and archaeological artifacts according to the characteristic patterns of annual growth rings in timber and tree trunks. To know the age of the lumber in each sculpture is to recognize the generations this tree has survived, and now being reincarnated into the individuals you will see before you.
- Collections: Dendrochronology in Hedera Helix