Pittsburgh is not new to larger-than-life outdoor art installations and exhibits. We all remember the Giant Yellow Rubber Duck from years ago, or more recently, the LST 325, a World War II Ship that attracted tourists to the North Shore in the fall of 2024.
No matter the spectacle, yinzers can’t get enough of extravagant and awe-inspiring presentations, and we are happy to share a new work that is sure to blow your mind this summer!
Momentum by Patrick Shearn of Poetic Kinetics, presented by Pittsburgh Botanic Garden
Pittsburgh Botanic Garden, west of Pittsburgh near Settlers Cabin Park, has been connecting and delighting audiences with nature since it opened to visitors in 2015, though its inception and conservation work stem back to 1988.
Now, the world-class outdoor garden has revealed two mesmerizing and colorful aerial sculptures with the opening of Momentum by renowned Patrick Shearn of Poetic Kinetics. Included with general admission for all to explore, Shearn created two original works.
Vivid Echo
The first, Vivid Echo in the Garden of the Five Senses, invokes a strong sense of wonder in all who visit. The piece uses inspiring messages written onto the fabric by garden members and friends, and is intentionally installed low for the ultimate immersive experience.
Elevated Reflection
In contrast, the second piece, Elevated Reflection (which includes 1,450 sq. ft. of netted canopy area and is about the size of a five-car garage) appears to float above the Lotus Pond, creating an enchanting mirror effect over the water as it ripples in the wind.
Both sculptures consist of a total of 11,095 individual pieces of reusable fabric, applied by hand to suspended netted canopies. Each piece is inspired by the garden’s natural landscape and incorporates kinetic movement, harnessing the invisible forces of wind and weather to create dynamic and memorable experiences for art and nature lovers alike of all ages.
“Inspiring people and children, in particular, is so exciting to me as an artist. Their perspectives are direct and unvarnished and often make for poignant observations for us adults,” said artist Patrick Shearn. He goes on to say, “I wanted to transmit the feeling of extraordinary discovery. I love offering surprise encounters with my artwork, and I particularly enjoy bringing work to the public outdoors and in places you might not expect it.”
Visit the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden and Momentum
Momentum is on display all throughout the summer. For tickets to the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden and more information about hours and upcoming programs, visit their website.
This content was provided by a local, independent contributor to Made in PGH, a lifestyle blog.
