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Internationally acclaimed artist Patrick Dougherty uses sticks and tree saplings to twist and weave immense environmental sculptures that stand as statements to his artistic interplay with the natural world. Elegant, sinuous, often whimsical, Patrick's work evokes memories of childhood treehouses, nests and lairs, and the urge to explore, hide and play. His previous installations span the planet, in Scotland, France, Japan, Australia and throughout the U.S.
Patrick brought his creative vision to the MN Landscape Arboretum during a three-week residency in May. Using willow as his medium, the Arboretum as his inspiration, and assisted by a willing team of staff and volunteers, he wove yet another masterwork, the "Uff da Palace," for our community to experience and enjoy.
Enjoy a photo retrospective of Patrick's previous works, and a unique view of the finished piece - the Uff da Palace - from the Arboretum Restaurant hallway, second floor of Oswald Visitor center.
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AN EVENING WITH PATRICK DOUGHERTY on THURSDAY MAY 13 6:30-8pm. Patrick presented a visual tour of his sculptures around the world and shared his personal story of becoming the world renowned stick artist he is today.
RIBBON CUTTING & NAMING CEREMONY. The Big Build's successful conclusion was celebrated at a special ceremony on May 22, when Patrick revealed for the first time his title for this new piece - the "Uff da Palace." Following the naming ceremony, Dougherty and visitors proceeded to the Marion Andrus Learning Center where they marked the opening of the StickWorks Studio, an outdoor creative play area for all ages.
ABOUT THE UFF DA PALACE:
Working with more than 80 volunteers and Arboretum staff, Patrick Dougherty created a whimsical castle-like sculpture. He characterizes the sculpture as comprised of four towers and antebellum areas, and topped off with a dome-type peak, all with an intended lean, as if the wind were making it bend.
Uff da Palace is made entirely of thousands of willow twigs, branches and saplings woven and twisted together (no nails or pegs were used). Visitors are encouraged to enter the structure and explore the ‘rooms’ and ‘towers’ and openings; and to peer upward through the thatched top at the sky.
“I had never heard the term ‘uff da’ before. When I asked what it meant, everyone had a slightly different answer. So, it reflects the different experiences people will have when seeing and exploring the sculpture.”
Also dedicated was the opening of Stickworks Studio at the Arboretum's Learning Center. This open-air studio under the trees, invites visitors of all ages to weave their own stick art throughout the summer.
The Uff da Palace sculpture at the Arboretum will be in place throughout this year and perhaps longer. Dougherty designed it with snow covering in mind. Created by Arboretum staff and volunteers, StickWorks Studio will be open May 22- October 10. This new open-air natural studio will be stocked with willow all summer, inviting visitors of all ages inspired by Patrick's work to create their own stick art under the trees.
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