My project is to create site-specific artworks on different locations during a 12 days road trip throughout California (and one site in Nevada). Through one of the Environmental Art classes I was enrolled in last quarter, I created a site-specific art piece at the Arboretum on the UCSC campus. It is a bas-relief in the shape of a heart made of compacted clay soil, with a mosaic made of eucalyptus bark on top of it. All materials have been collected on site. It is entitled “Putting the pieces back together” and its purpose is to reflect and help when dealing with loss and grief. A prototype has been presented at the Fall Open Studios on campus, and the larger version is currently under construction at the Arboretum. The Heart Tour will happen during Spring break. It will go from the Pacific coast to Joshua Tree and Mojave desert, Valley of Fire, Death Valley, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, and Yosemite National Park before returning home. On each key site, I plan to dedicate some time to create a site-specific version of the heart mosaic art piece. Since the eco-systems are different at each location, I intend to use material found on site that reflects the natural variety of each specific area, such as sand and seaweed on the coast, rocks in Death Valley, and wood and leaves in the forest. I use a research methodology that consists of observing what resources a site has to offer. I also take the time to get familiar with the place by exploring it, observing it, and engaging in a form of meditation in order to create a piece that resonates with the overall vibration that I perceive. By the end of the road trip, I will have completed a total of seven variations of the heart mosaic (including the one at the Arboretum) that will showcase some of California’s diverse natural resources. This idea of diversity is also a metaphor that refers to the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion that are essential to social progress and justice in our society. My work will be documented on camera through photography and/or film. Because of the fragile aspects of the actual sculptures, the heart mosaics will remain on site, as a gift to the environment. The photographs will be shared on my website, and may turn into an exhibition and/or a publication at a future date. As a current Art student at UCSC, I am particularly interested in Environmental Art, and I have enjoyed creating site-specific projects on campus and in other locations. I have been a professional artist and designer for 30 years, and I have extensive experience handling projects from conception to completion. I have been on many road-trips and I have been camping on many different occasions since childhood. I currently drive a Jeep Rubicon, which opens the option of over-landing in remote locations. I am very excited about this project, as it brings an additional layer to the concept of traveling: let’s spread the love! The Heart tour has been submitted to other UC reserves, and grants and funds at UCSC. More information is available here: https://www.astridchevallier.com/finearts/index.php/the-heart-tour/ Thank you for your consideration, Astrid Chevallier

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