Delta Solar

From Wikipedia the free encyclopedia

Delta Solar
ArtistAlejandro Otero
Year1977 (1977)
TypeStainless steel
Dimensions8.2 m × 12 m (27 ft × 40 ft)
LocationNational Air and Space Museum, Washington, D.C., United States
Coordinates38°53′17″N 77°01′17″W / 38.887976°N 77.021485°W / 38.887976; -77.021485
OwnerSmithsonian Institution

Delta Solar is a public artwork by Venezuelan sculptor Alejandro Otero located outside of the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC, United States.[1] Delta Solar is meant to pay homage to modern technology and the Inca sun cult.[2]

Description[edit]

This abstract sculpture consists of stainless steel "sails" that move in the breeze. They are attached to an open geometric grid formed into the shape of a Delta Formation.[1] It sits on concrete and in a reflecting pool.[2]

Acquisition[edit]

The sculpture was dedicated on June 29, 1977 by Carlos Andrés Pérez, president of Venezuela as a gift celebrating the Bicentennial of the American Revolution.[1] The sculpture was originally supposed to be dedicated in the Spring, however, cold weather prohibited the pouring of concrete for the base of the structure.[3]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b c Smithsonian (1977). "NASM Delta Solar Sculpture Dedicated". Chronology of Smithsonian History. Smithsonian. Retrieved 4 July 2017.
  2. ^ a b Jacqueline Barnitz. Twentieth-century art of Latin America. University of Texas Press, 2001, p 203.
  3. ^ Smithsonian (1977). "Installation of NASM Sculpture Delayed". Chronology of Smithsonian History. Smithsonian. Retrieved 3 January 2010.

External links[edit]