Portone

Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya
Born 1988 in Atlanta, Geogria
Website - alonglastname.com

"Portone" is a steel sculpture by renowned artist Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya, comprised of nine 10x10-foot steel frames arranged in a mesmerizing Jacob’s ladder formation. Of the work Phingbodhipakkiya says;

“‘Portone’ meaning ‘doorway’ in Italian, is a meditation on restoration and transformation, and the hidden power that lies within us all. It is modeled after a beta sheet, a critical substructure that makes up the protein catalase. Catalase is a life-protecting enzyme found in nearly all living organisms from bacteria to plants to human beings. It converts caustic hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, substances that are not only benign but also crucial for survival.”

“We live in chaotic times, and ‘Portone’ offers us a moment of refuge and renewal. Like Dante passing through the nine circles of heaven, visitors may pass through its nine frames with an eye toward the horizon. This piece invites visitors to transform the noise and pain inside us into life-affirming strength, which we can then channel toward a more nurturing and unified world.”

The work is painted light blue and graces the southwest corner of our museum grounds. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, "Portone" encourages introspection and renewal as visitors traverse through its frames, contemplating the horizon and embracing contemplation as an art in itself.

Made possible by the collaborative efforts of Goldwell directors and friends, led by director Joel Spencer, “Portone” exemplifies our commitment to showcasing innovative art that inspires and enlightens. Discover more about Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya's work and join us in exploring the transformative power of art at Goldwell Open Air Museum.