Big MEL, 2019

public installation | Spokane, WA

industrial collaboration and structural logic

Focus: modular abstraction, industrial fabrication and internal illumination

size: 8FT x 8FT x 8FT
materials: Welded aluminum frame, architectural-grade vinyl, internal LED illumination
Big MEL, aluminum and vinyl, 6ft x 7ft x 8ft

  • Big MEL is a modular, large-scale abstract sculpture of a Lemon developed during an artist residency at The Laboratory in Spokane, WA. The project embodies the entire spectrum between permanent installation and high-mobility community engagement

  • intersection of fine art and industrial design

    •  Volumetric Skeletal Design: The main structure of the sculpture is a precision-welded aluminum frame. It provides a dataset for understanding how internal structures dictate external mass and volume.

    • Material Synthesis: architectural-grade vinyl stretched over a rigid frame acts as a skin for the lemon’s exterior surface.

    • Cross-functional Collaboration: I forged a strategic partnership with a local industrial awning manufacturer to source high-durability materials and access professional equipment.

    • Modular Efficiency: the sculpture is designed for solo assembly in under an hour, requiring a clear, repeatable workflow. 

    • Process Mapping: documentation through video and images of the construction and dismantling of Big MEL illustrate the lifecycle of a 3D object. The ability to break down a complex physical form into a series of logical, manageable steps is central to my creative and analytical practice.

Intersection of Fine Art and Industrial Design

Where is Big Mel today?

Peer through the windows at Tempe’s underground art installation: Dannelle Plaza

Across the way from Yucca Taproom is an unsuspecting building, seemingly abandoned. But when the sun goes down, the building lights up from the inside out with glowing window displays designed by some of Arizona’s most prolific artists in the scene. This is where Big MEL lives now, standing tall behind a very big message.

EXPERIENCE THE FRUIT.

Bring Big MEL to your next event.

Email for inquiries: Lizzy@theladyegg.com