Opening Reception: Convergence

As part of Wupatki National Monument’s 100th anniversary, recent artist-in-residence Shawn Skabelund has designed a site-specific, place-based installation/performance entitled Convergence. It is the first time that an art event has taken place within the monument since it was established.

While living in the historic Rock House, Skabelund explored the length of Deadman Wash and Strawberry Crater Wilderness outside the monument. Walking the black volcanic cinders, he observed the mortality count of the native juniper due to the severe multi-year drought and warmer temperatures. Junipers were dying at an unprecedented rate.

Convergence explores the die-off of Juniperus monosperma, the main tree species within the monument and the greater Wupatki ecosystem through art and music. As the evening sun begins to set, Albuquerque pianist Janice ChenJu Chiang will perform on a black Steinway grand piano located inside the installation. Opposite the piano will be a one-seed juniper, and together, the piano and the tree will symbolically converse and converge with each other.

Skabelund’s new installation Coyote Makes the World will also be on exhibit (see image).

The installation has been supported by: National Park Service, Western National Parks Association, Coconino National Forest, Steinway & Sons, Arizona Commission on the Arts and Arizona Community Foundation, and AP Sawmill & Lumber Products.