Thanks to funding from the City of Durango’s Lodgers’ Tax devoted to Arts & Culture projects the Durango Botanic Gardens (DBG) has acquired and will soon install a new metal sculpture along the heavily traveled Animas River Trail (ART).  The project application was reviewed and approved by the city’s Creative Economy Commission. 

The metal artwork, entitled the Infiniti II Wind Harp, is the creation of Pagosa Springs artist, Ross Barrable (in photo at left).  This stunning work in metal features 18 nylon strings and stainless-steel tuning pins that will capture wind movements in the Animas River corridor and transform them into a variety of natural, pleasing musical tones.  The strings generate different tones and moods depending on the direction and power of the wind; in other words, the wind harp becomes nature’s improvisational musician.  We believe this handcrafted, locally produced piece, will instantly capture the attention and hearts of Durangoans while also becoming one of the city’s signature artworks.

Ross Barrable is the only acoustical wind harp artist in the United States with installations across the county in a variety of public spaces.  More locally, Mercy Hospital has a similar wind harp by Barrable.  Following is the artist’s web site: https://harmonywindharps.com

In consultation with the artist, Ross Barrable, we have determined that the best location for the wind harp is between our crevice garden and our grass garden.  The location and the amazing nature of this work will powerfully reflect Durango’s commitment to public art.  We hope it generates favorable dialogue in the community about the confluence of art and nature, the synchronicity of nature (wind) and the art it inspires in humankind.

Thanks to the City of Durango and the Creative Economy Commission for support the arts and our Botanic Gardens.