Parts of A Whole at Swarthmore College

Parts of A Whole was created in collaboration with artist Erin Wheary in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the majority of the Swarthmore College campus working remotely in many different locations, and International students unable to travel to visit family, Erin and I collected geographic coordinates from Swarthmore College faculty, students, and staff. These coordinates were laser engraved on hexagonal tiles of blue edge-glow acrylic, assembled in clusters in a single installation, and hung in Singer Hall. The installation remains a reminder of the collaboration between community members during this challenging time.

side bottom view of large window with translucent blue hexagons hanging in front
large window with translucent blue hexagons hanging in front

The installation allows views into the exterior gardens of the campus, while refracting light and shifting color throughout the day. Should the College ever decide to remove the installation, its modular design would allow it to be dispersed in smaller clusters in various locations desired by the campus community.

right side view of parts of whole installation
close up of blue hexagon cluster with coordinates engraved
close up large window with blue hexagons hanging in front
stairwell in front of installation window with blue hexagons hanging behind