Ghost Trees
Object NameSculpture
Artist / Maker
Thomas Stancliffe
((American, b. 1955))
Date2023
MediumWelded aluminum, solar powered LED light
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LinePurchased by University Museums. In the Art on Campus Collection, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.
Object numberU2023.207ab
Status
On viewCultureAmerican
Label TextFrom the University Museums Collections Handbook, vol. 2, 2025:
Fabricated as part of Tom Stancliffe’s 2023 solo exhibition in the Christian Petersen Art Museum, University Museums accessioned Ghost Trees into the permanent collection for placement within the Anderson Sculpture Garden, and eventually in rotating locations across campus. This pair of 14 ft. tall sculptures are welded metal oak leaves, bent into the form of two looming tree trunks. Stancliffe’s inspiration for these sculptures originated during a night walk in Ledges State Park west of Ames, Iowa, where moonlight shining through the trees created silhouettes along the trail.
The image of two trees constructed from falling leaves is heightened as viewers pass by after dark when solar powered lights hidden in the trunk of the trees collect energy throughout the day and shine within the trunks through the leaves in the evening hours. This effect mirrors the reflective tone of the moon shining in the forest which Stancliffe seeks to replicate.
Locations
- (not entered) Iowa State University, Anderson Sculpture Garden
Object Name: Goblet
Iowa City Flint Glass Co.
1880-1881
Object number: UM2009.27
