A double life-size cast bronze figure, partially submerged, is pulling a boat through a dry riverbed. In describing this piece the artist said, "The incongruity created by allusions to both water and desert reflects the incongruity of Phoenix, a city that seems to be a virtual oasis in the middle of the desert."

Named after a character from the John Hersey novel A Single Pebble, the 800-pound Tracker sparks intrigue due to its elusive nature and enormous size. The figure, a man pulling a boat through the desert, is best described by artist David Phelps:

“I believe that this piece in some respect reflects feelings about Phoenix. There is a tension in this piece between water and drought; an incongruity that may affect feelings on a subconscious level. This figure is partly submerged in the ground plane and pulls a boat through what appears to be a dry riverbed, but at the same time suggests water. He is also partly covered with dry, cracked earth. The incongruity created by allusions to both water and desert reflects the incongruity of Phoenix, a city which seems to be a virtual oasis in the middle of the desert.”

Tracker presents the community with a sense of vigor due both to the strength in his face and the materials used. Cast in bronze, this piece illustrates a delicate balance between the figure’s features and the overwhelming nature of his actions. Overall, Tracker presents a feeling of strength, much like the city surrounding it.

About the Artist
David Phelps grew up on a delta in central California. The constant fear of drought, and subsequent overflow of water after a rain, stayed with Phelps throughout his life. It is this ebb and flow that has influenced many of his sculptures, including the work that he did with the Phoenix Arts Commission. Mr. Phelps has exhibited his work nationally and has worked on a variety of public art projects during his career.