I’m honored to share that the City of Braselton commissioned me to paint a Blockhead sculpture for Artrageous Braselton 2026.
When I first saw the sculpture’s distinctly square-shaped head, I thought of the Japanese square watermelon—shikaku suika. These watermelons are carefully cultivated inside glass or plastic boxes so they grow into a cube form, originally designed for practical storage in small refrigerators. These special watermelon are now primarily given as gifts. I was drawn to the way this fruit embodies both intention and transformation: something organic guided into an unexpected geometric form.
That concept felt like a natural conversation with the Blockhead itself. I embraced the sculpture’s angles by painting a luminous square watermelon across the head, then allowed the design to soften and flow downward. Watermelon vines, curling tendrils, broad leaves, and delicate blossoms wrap around the body, creating movement and life against the sculpture’s solid form. I wanted the piece to feel vibrant and celebratory. It is rooted in nature, yet playful and contemporary.
Public art offers a unique opportunity to create work that lives beyond the studio and invites interaction. Knowing this piece will ultimately be experienced in the open air on the Braselton Town Green made the process especially meaningful.
It was also a joy to finally collaborate with fellow Atlanta-area artist Chris Skeene, the creator of the Blockhead sculpture series. Contributing my voice to his sculptural framework felt like a true creative dialogue, and I’m grateful for the chance to be part of this growing public art initiative in Braselton.
I can’t wait for you to see it in person!