Six 4' diameter structural columns have been sculpturally modified using a mosaic surface of broken tile, pottery and hand-made clay tiles. Original pieces created by Phoenix artists and secondary school students have been glazed a glossy black and grouted with matte charcoal black. The shiny surface of the columns reflects the busy and colorful surrounding environment, and make a subtle reference to the contemporary black on black Southwestern Native American pottery of the Santa Clara and San Ildefonso pueblos. Their contemporary look and Native American inspiration blend, resulting in dramatic southwestern imagery.



Using bits of ceramic tile painted with familiar imagery, Ron Gasowski has modified an ordinary structure into an extraordinary work of art. The six columns are dressed in tuxedo black tiles that shimmer in the light. From a distance, the piece seems simple and elegant. Yet when one gets closer, the images behind the black surface become vibrant.

Working with students from all over the city, Gasowski had each depict images of what they saw as being southwestern culture onto the ceramic tiles. Subjects range pictures of cars to imagery reflecting the desert environment and its ancient history.

The transformation of the columns has created a sense of character to an ordinarily passed over structure. The tile mosaics declare their independence as sculpture while integrating comfortably into the complex requirements of the airport.

About the Artist
Ron Gasowski, a Michigan native, received an MFA in sculpture from the University of Washington. Since 1971, Gasowski has taught at Arizona State University as a Professor in the School of Art. His area of specialty is Folk Art and Intermedia.