Chrome Works Play – iO Studio

The ‘Post-Forest’ Sculpture at Chrome Works Park embodies narratives of industry and ecology. The careful arrangement of wooden posts reference the architecture of the former chrome works building, as well as the locust forests for which Baltimore waterfront neighborhoods like Locust Point were named. The structure is as visually appealing as environmental art piece as it is functional as a nature play feature.

Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Completed: Ongoing
Size: 80’ x 18’ x 20’
Budget: $180,000
Services: Sculpture, Feature Design

Interpreting History

Post-Forest or Pickup Sticks as it is also known, exists at the nexus of several inspirational sources – from industry to ecology, architecture to landscape. The structure is one of a constellation of elements meant to interpret the rich history of the site, and THE focal element along the waterfront.

Simplicity in Form

Wood, steel, rope. Simple materials blend with simple execution. The form of the structure is meant to evoke images of relic architecture, a wind-blown stand of trees, or the timber scaffolding used in ship building. The intersecting vertical and horizontal posts create clime-able sculpture at the intersection of nature, industry and architecture.