LISA LI



DEPTH OF FIELD
Land Art
Year of creation: 2024
Material: Concrete
Dimensions: Various
Location: Centerville, TN, USA




Spanning 20 feet in width, the sculpture is composed of three sections with heights ranging from 4 to 6 feet, each shaped to reflect the natural contours of mountain ranges. The three sections are staggered, designed to create shifting perspectives that present new shapes depending on where the viewer stands and how the light interacts throughout the day and year. The vibrant red color was chosen to echo the Red Mountains of Utah, a place that holds a deep spiritual connection for Aylin Ozgener, the visionary behind the Bask Retreat Center. Positioned on an extension of the center’s property, the sculpture’s mountain-inspired forms gently remind visitors that they are surrounded by the Tennessee mountains—something that can often be overlooked when immersed in the dense trees of the landscape.

During the planning stages, I worked closely with members of the Bask team to ensure the sculpture aligned with the retreat’s mission of preserving native plant species and enhancing the surrounding environment with respect for its energy. Selecting the sculpture’s permanent home required multiple site visits to analyze the landscape, assess lighting conditions, and ensure seamless integration into the property. Consideration was given to both the visual impact and the environmental footprint of the installation. The experience was also highly collaborative and educational. I had the privilege of meeting and learning from professionals across various fields, all contributing their expertise to the retreat’s vision.