Mt Carmel, Denver Zoo, and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Well, it has been awhile since I've given any updates, and so much is going on! We have some exciting projects in the works and/or wrapping up. Especially for our Custom Rock division. A beautiful new mining scene at the new Mt Carmel Community Center in Trinidad, CO embraces the entryway and mural painting - bringing a piece of nature, history, and exploration inside.

The Community Center officially opens next weekend, so stay tuned for completed photos.

Colorado Hardscapes is also completing a new exhibit at the Denver Zoo called Northern Shore. This exploration streambed and sandbox gives children a place to explore and play.

And then last, but definitely not least, Colorado Hardscapes is finishing up texturing a painting a new artificial concrete tree at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in the new Elephant Barn - phase 1 of the new Encounter Africa Exhibit. This tree will be an enrichment tree for the elephant, where the elephant will feed out of and guests will have the opportunity to give the elephants treats (apples). Colorado Hardscapes spent a work session yesterday with JE Dunn and Portico Group fine tuning texture and color of this African Tree. Stay tuned for new photos soon!

Concrete as an artform?

I am fortunate to work with Philip di Giacomo, an unparalleled rock artisan, on a regular basis and learn not only his techniques, but also the inspiration and theory behind his art pieces.

When working on a new feature, di Giacomo's first questions are not about location, grading, site conditions, or even cost. His primary focus in the beginning and throughout the entire project is on the end user. What can he offer the child playing on this playground, or the elderly couple with grandchildren in this backyard that will bring them closer and expose them to new adventures and experiences? He takes the time to learn about the owners and creates a work of art that caters to their needs.

di Giacomo and I are currently working on maquettes for the Pika Peak and Marmot Mountain features at the new Denver Botanic Mordecai Children's Garden. Mundus Bishop created a great interactive design for children to explore and learn. We turned their initial drawings into a 3-dimensional art piece, bringing it to life with the children in our own lives in mind.

While keeping the geomorphisis of rock in mind, with proper rift, grain, hard grain, and talus, we are striving to bring a new experience to the children who visit the garden, molding each feature into an artfully educational experience. Instead of just a cave for children to explore, di Giacomo explains the need to have sunlight enter the cave so that children can explore in a non-intimidating environment; and the need to make it just deep enough for adventure, without parents losing the ability to see their children.
Peek holes overlooking the mountains to the west are created via a descending fissure in the rock. This allows for children from 2 to 14 to be able to share in the experience and interact with the person next to them since they are all sharing one view. Taking these kinds of details into consideration along with the proper aging and weathering of rocks will produce the desired affect every time.
It is an honor to work with di Giacomo. He is an active member of society, a grandfather, and an artist. He is proof that no matter what the medium, successful art positively impacts the viewers' quality of life.



-->visit the di Giacomo website here