The ADP Group, Inc. commissioned the work when they built their new office on the corner of 2nd Avenue and Cocoanut in Sarasota, Florida to support an ordinance designed to enhance the city's theater and arts district. The building site is located on a double parcel of land measuring 10,000 square feet. Approximately one percent of the acquisition and construction cost was used to commission the artwork.

The artist created the sculpture to compliment its spatial setting. Continuity and harmony were important aspects of its design. Randall believes that an artist, like a landscape architect, must pay special attention to many elements while developing a project. The specifics of the site, the geographical location, community perception and even the various personalities of a firm's partners need to be taken into account during the development of a sculpture. Climatic conditions are a necessary consideration in selecting the medium. Finally, the location and orientation of the work should be selected in direct response to the surrounding space and landscape elements.

The "Clockwork" sculpture at the ADP Group, Inc. office is a focal element in this small urban plaza situated on the northwest corner of a five street intersection. It visually marks the building's main entrance and channels pedestrian traffic into and around the structure. "Art was an essential part of the building's design," says ADP Principal Javier Suarez. "We didn't want to lose the city presence."

Design elements such as paving, lighting, landscape screening and the textures and colors of the building itself were taken into account in laying out the site. The building was set back further than required to maintain the integrity of the space created by the intersection. Orientation to natural light was analyzed and used for dramatic effect.

The result is a project that complements its surroundings and creates a sense of identity near the downtown arts district of Sarasota. The artwork reflects the convergence of the various elements and processes required for the design and development of this space. Like so many other intimate spaces, it must be experienced to be fully appreciated.

We often get caught up in analyzing the aesthetics of art. At best, this is subjective. It is perfectly natural to feel unknowing or uncertain about what art is. Art isn't so much about knowing as it is about inquiring into the uniqueness of every single thing. It challenges us to look beyond our rational minds into possibilities. This may very well be the most important contribution art can make. Once finished in its physical form, it captures a moment in time.

Art gives us glimpses of the past and visions of our future. It calls us to question rather than define. It stimulates thoughts and evokes emotion. It becomes an engine of cultural evolution and revolution. Art is as much a part of our landscape as we are. LASN