Stonehenge of the Southwest
One of the most unique and awesome features about Phoenix is the downtown Burton Barr Public Library. In 1995, architect Will Bruder built an amazing structure to house the educational written word (among other things) for the community.
On the Summer Solstice - through deliberate, perfect geometry and intricate architecture - the expansive top floor Great Reading Room is miraculously transformed into a truly awesome experience. Precisely at Solar Noon on the Solstice, the Great Reading Room's walls, glacial blue skylights and soaring pillars morph into a huge sundial and become illuminated from the sunlight directly above causing an outrageous ethereal light show. The tips of the 28 pillars suddenly resemble freshly lit candles and the stone side walls begin to glow. The visual effect lasts only a short time, but is enough to take your breath away.
To actually witness a celestial event because of the very intentional, pre-meditated design of a huge public-use building is phenomenal. Sometimes referred to as the "Stonehenge of the Southwest", the Central Phoenix Library is something to be acknowledged and lauded. Very cool...
Click on the painting to observe the details.
Mixed Media on Canvas
8" X 10"
