Denver blooms: kinetic aspen trees and a blue bear take center stage
A surprising splash of color and whimsy has landed in downtown Denver – and frankly, it’s a welcome distraction.
Three stainless steel aspen trees bring autumn to the streets
Gardener extraordinaire Kilmer’s observation about the beauty of trees resonates deeply, but I’ve seen something truly remarkable: a kinetic tree sculpture, ‘Aspen Light,’ by Colorado artist Patrick Shearn of Poetic Kinetics. Located on 16th Street, this isn’t your grandmother’s static garden ornament. These three stainless-steel aspens are actively growing, their translucent leaves spinning and shimmering in the breeze, mimicking the breathtaking display of autumn in the Rockies. The colors – a vibrant red, sunny yellow, fiery orange, cool blue, and even a deep purple – glow with a stained-glass intensity, even on a cloudy day. It’s a sensory experience, and a rather delightful one at that.
The big blue bear: denver’s monumental mascot
Just a short walk away, the Colorado Convention Center is home to another iconic Denver creation: the ‘Big Blue Bear,’ officially titled ‘I See What You Mean,’ by Lawrence Argent. Let’s be honest, Denver has a penchant for oversized, blue animals. This bear, perpetually gazing out at the convention center, is undeniably charming – a goofy, endearing presence. And, of course, there’s Blucifer, the giant blue horse with those unsettling, glowing red eyes stationed at the airport. A theme is a theme, and Denver embraces it with gusto.
A blue hue throughout
Interestingly, the dome of the Colorado State Capitol, visible from 16th Street, is also a shade of blue-gray. It’s a subtle detail, but a powerful one – a testament to the city’s unusual aesthetic. There’s something compelling about clusters of blue, wouldn’t you agree?
For those in Texas, I’m genuinely envious. You can experience Poetic Kinetics’ other kinetic Art, including the ‘Otherwild’ exhibit featuring tree sculptures, at the San Antonio Botanical Garden through July 7. Go, and tell me what you think. Seriously, go.
Digging Deeper: My new book, ‘Gardens of Texas: Visions of Resilience from the Lone Star State,’ is available now. It’s a love letter to the landscapes and the people who cultivate them. Find it on Amazon and at select bookstores. Pam Penick, Digging.”n