Cytoplasm by Phil Price

Today we heard that our dear friend is near to death, and has not been able to get home from the hospice as had been hoped. Her family are with her, and she is too weak for anyone else. Such things place things in perspective if they were not there.

Before learning that I did have a mid day run down to the Viaduct Harbour where this piece is one of the sculptures on display. Below is information gained from the City Council site.

Cytoplasm, Phil Price
Location: Waitemata Plaza
Date: 2003, epoxy and glass, composite skin with foam core

Phil Price's kinetic work comprises 16 pod-like discs which move both individually and collectively in the wind. The appearance is almost constantly changing as it moves with even light wind. This work links art and science. Price worked with motorcycle designer John Britten in the 1980s and became interested in exploring how modern materials such as the high performance plastics developed by NASA could be used in art.

Cytoplasm is one of a suite of works using similar materials to create moving sculptures that have won awards both in New Zealand and overseas. There is a scientific basis to the theme of the work as well as in its materials. Cytoplasm is the jelly-like material that fills cells and carries out life's processes. It is constantly moving and flowing.

Price describes his work as playing with ideas and forms. For him, art is an ongoing exploration that is never fixed. The artist is interested in the range of associations and responses that viewers have to his work.