Hanging Wings [Design Conjecture]

Hanging Wings combine both play and storytelling into a sculptural form in parks. Through the literature reviewed, sculptures are not only used to enhance the visual space of parks, but they also encourage visitors to interact and play with the piece (Laris, 2015). Sculptures can also represent concepts or convey messages as seen in Clemans’ work (2025). 

While walking underneath the sculpture, Hanging Wings tells a story about the effect of waste on wildlife. The trail starts with a bird feeding from the trash around the trash bin. As visitors continue the path, they’ll be met with the bird over their heads and entangled in the waste people leave behind. With the ladders that reach the bird, visitors are encouraged to interact with the sculpture and remove the trash that hangs from the bird. Hanging Wings connects the hearts of the people to the environment through interaction and storytelling.

References. 

Clemans, G. (2025). Seattle’s Waterfront Park art includes spectacular new works. The Seattle Times. https://www.seattletimes.com/entertainment/visual-arts/seattles-waterfront-park-art-includes-spectacular-new-works/ 

Laris, M. (2015). Interactive Art Inspires Imaginative, Open-Ended Play. Nrpa.org. https://www.nrpa.org/parks-recreation-magazine/2015/august/interactive-art-inspires-imaginative-open-ended-play/