“Art is a wound turned into light.” ~ Georges Braque
The HUman Element
The HUman element "mur-all" is a colorful celebration of the commonality and diversity present in our community. It is an interactive public art project which focuses on the qualities of our (human) nature which support life, provide joy and foster connection.
The concept underlying the design amalgamates the periodic table of elements, which comprise life as we know it, with positive traits/aspects of being human, which sustain this life. There are 130 “symbols” currently in our library. The number in the top left of each image indicates the number of humans, out of the 7.5 billion sharing this planet, who appear in the photo.
The public is invited to participate safely in person, following COVID protocols at a scheduled photo session in their community, or safely from home, by submitting an image through email. Participants who attend a live photo event will be able to take home a laser printed copy of their element block, if they wish. Those who participate online or through email, may purchase a laser print of their element block for a nominal fee/donation to the project.
Our aim is to expand this project. We are currently collecting images and researching new venues. So, if you are interested in being involved or donating images, space, time, money or resources. Please get in touch.
Please Note:-The "mur-alls" are created in different sizes and configurations, which is dependent on the space available and production materials. Below is an image of an installation in Santa Rosa which is 4ft high by 8ft wide.
Donations will help support The HUman element and other public art projects in development.
The HUman element "mur-all" installed in Santa Rosa. (October 2020)
Above and below: The HUman element "mur-all" installed at the Museum of Sonoma County in Santa Rosa for the Open and Out program. This piece contains photos of local residents, taken during a photo session held in Old Courthouse Square in Santa Rosa, in October. In addition to images of participants from other venues. 4ft x 8ft. (December 2020-March 2021)
“My role in society, or any artist's or poet's role, is to try and express what we all feel. Not to tell people how to feel. Not as a preacher, not as a leader, but as a reflection of us all.” ~ John Lennon
The HUman element "mur-all" installed in Santa Rosa near the corner of B and 4th Streets for the Open and Out program. This piece above contains photos of local residents, taken during a photo session held in Old Courthouse Square in Santa Rosa, in October. In addition to images of participants from other venues.