"THE LISTENING VESSEL",  granite,  62"H  x  100"L   x  20"D, 2008

  Lake Hiawatha Park,  28th Ave So. at  43rd St. E.,  Minneapolis, MN

The Listening Vessel is an interactive environmental sculpture in Rainbow Granite, sited on the north shore of Lake Hiawatha, in south Minneapolis, MN. The sculpture

has the sense of both a natural vessel and an abstract mythological beast.  The

front side of the sculpture contains a large concave semi sphere (parabola) that is

an interactive listening device.  Sounds emanating to the viewer's ear are amplified, including the sounds of the wind, waves, waterfowl and other sounds of the city. 

The work encourages viewers to explore the natural environment as well as their

own inner musings and imagination.  Commissioned by the city of Minneapolis.

 Apprentice/Assistant Nick Blahna                 Mary and Connie listen to the world

" AD ASTRA PER ASPERA - TO THE STARS THROUGH DIFFICULTY",  2008

  mosaic mural in stone, 8' X 13'.  St. Paul Youth Services, 2100 Wilson Ave. SP

"Ad Astra Per Aspera" illustrates the struggle and growth of 'at risk' youth residing within our community.  The right side of the mural depicts many young faces, of

all cultures and colors, experiencing the agonies and trials of their lives.  Behind

these youth are dark, stormy skies and a metaphorical door, opening and through which they have just walked. Depicted in the center is an androgynous figure who holds out the symbol of assistance and opportunity, that which is offered to these youth by the St. Paul Youth Services.  The left side of the illustration depicts adults helping the youth. The dawning horizon depicts the future of their lives.

  " THE RIBS OF HUMANITY"     a site specific work in progress

The "Ribs of Humanity" is a site work commissioned by the University of Minnesota

to be installed at the new Hansen Hall (Carlson School of Management) on the West Bank Campus in Minneapolis.  The work will depict as a central motif a large blazing fire, one that represents the burning passion of the business world.  This motif will

be carved from a 33,000 lbs piece of red granite.  Surrounding the fire motif will be five to seven abstracted life size figures carved from various colored granites.  The figures will represent the meeting of minds and the importance of communication in the global business process.  Installation will be in the fall of 2009.