Public art sculpture by studio mate David Barthold
Hurly Whirly is a kinetic sculpture of steel and marine plywood, designed by David Barthold with the help of Gosia Pawlowska and James Bouché at Gowanus Studio Space, and fabricated by BEAM Center apprentices under the supervision of Brian Cohen, Em Eason and James Cafaro.
From David:
“I’m deeply grateful to Why Not Art, the Beam Center, and Arts Gowanus for the opportunity to bring Hurly Whirly to life as a public sculpture. This piece is a whimsical reflection on the American tradition of roadside folk art, celebrating its ingenuity, eccentricity, and spirit of joyful improvisation.
With Hurly Whirly, I hope to evoke a sense of curiosity and delight, inviting passersby to reconnect with the kind of handmade wonder that often appears unexpectedly along the margins of everyday life. This project has been a meaningful chance to contribute to the public landscape, and I’m honored to share it with the community. “