Model for Floating World - Dragonfly

Artist / Maker Ralph Helmick ((American, b. 1952))

Date2014

MediumPowder coated steel

ClassificationsArt on Campus Preparatory Studies and Maquettes

Credit LineCommissioned by University Museums. An Art in State Buildings for the Biorenewables Complex. In the Art on Campus Model and Maquette Collection, Christian Petersen Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object numberU2015.140

Status

On view

Collections

CultureAmerican

Label TextFrom the University Museums Collections Handbook, vol. 2, 2025: Featured in the Art on Campus Preparatory Studies and Maquettes Collection, these two material samples allow for closer inspection of the powder coated steel Helmick used to create his large-scale installation in Elings Hall, Floating World. Found on the west side of the hanging public work of art, these figures highlight the connecting theme of Iowa waterways found throughout all aspects of the installation. The central image of Iowa emphasize rivers throughout the state, and this map is repeated in the terrazzo floor beneath. As visitors follow the installation into the center of the building, the reverse side of the hanging installation focuses on a wetland environment in the foreground. Material samples are an important aspect of preparing large-scale works of art, as the artist, fabricators, and public art committee review potential color choices, materiality, strength of chosen materials for long-term maintenance, and aesthetic choices before the final production.

Locations