Rats Star, 2021

Aluminum, and galvanized steel.

Permanent Collection Evergreen Art Ranch, Oak Run, California.

In 2020, the Evergreen Art Ranch in Oak Run, California, provided a serene haven for artists seeking inspiration amidst the harmonious blend of art and nature. This renowned sanctuary allowed artists to create site-specific sculptures using materials discovered on the property itself, inviting them to embrace the historical context of the region. Oak Run, once a bustling hub of mining activity during the California Gold Rush, offered remnants of its rich history as a captivating backdrop for artistic exploration. As the artists roamed the sprawling landscape, they uncovered discarded fragments of scrap metal, bearing witness to the triumphs and hardships of bygone eras.

Immersed in the untamed beauty that enveloped the ranch, artists discovered solace and artistic freedom. Time seemed to slow down in this idyllic setting, fostering a profound connection between the artists and their surroundings. Inspired by the rugged landscapes and the resilience of those who came before them, the artists infused their sculptures with a deep sense of history and meaning.

At the heart of the ranch stood a dedicated welding and fabrication facility, a testament to the Evergreen Art Ranch's commitment to supporting the artistic process. This well-equipped space provided artists with state-of-the-art tools and machinery, enabling them to transform their visions into tangible works of art.

In 2021 one artist, Alan Chin, repurposed the remnants of old aluminum irrigation pipes that had been left behind by the previous owner of the property. It is interesting to note that the previous owner had used the land for the cultivation of marijuana, a practice that later became legalized. The abandoned irrigation pipes, once essential to the illicit cultivation, now found new purpose in the hands of the artists. Breathing new life into these forgotten materials, the artists bridged the gap between the past and the present, intertwining the stories of the land and its inhabitants.

The Evergreen Art Ranch stood as a testament to the enduring power of art and its profound impact within historical contexts and the cosmos. Through their site-specific sculptures, the artists celebrated not only the beauty of Oak Run's natural surroundings but also paid homage to the struggles and triumphs of those who came before them. The ranch became a cherished haven where art, history, and nature converged, leaving an indelible mark on the artistic landscape of California.