Cloud Observatory

wood, paint, corrugated metal, chalk, found clouds, 2302 E Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN 46201, 2015

The Cloud Observatory, an architectural sculpture located in the Near Eastside of Indianapolis, activates both the imagination and the project site by inviting people to watch clouds travel across the sky. The public is invited to enter the structure and lean against the wall. From this vantage point, participants can direct their gaze through the opening in the roof, which serves as a viewfinder for cloud watching. The chalkboard provides a space for participants to leave drawn or written descriptions of their observations.

Portable Cloud Observatories have facilitated cloud watching at many public events, and a second Cloud Observatory was commissioned by Penland School of Craft in 2018.

This project was supported by Arts for Learning and developed in collaboration with students at Thomas Gregg Neighborhood School, who participated in art workshops to imagine alternatives for the vacant properties in their neighborhood. Special thanks to Jim and Debbie Strietelmeier who graciously hosted the Cloud Observatory next to their community garden for 5 years. The Cloud Observatory is now permanently installed at Thomas Gregg Neighborhood School.