Via Solaris Sculpture Analysis

While attending Indiana State University, one of the first sculptures I took an interest in was the Via Solaris. “Via Solaris,” Latin for the way or road of the sun. The sculpture is about 20-feet tall and made of bronze and steel. Via Solaris was created by John Van Alstine (b. 1952), an American sculptor living and working in New York State best known for stone and metal abstract sculptures exhibiting exceptional balance and poise. The sculpture is located on the north side of Stalker Hall on the campus of Indiana State University. I have always had a fascination with large sculptures made of metal, and when I discovered the Via Solaris, I was immediately captivated visually with the size, height, and unique shapes the artist used. At first glance, the Via looked like a giant sundial, but the sculpture was missing the traditional round "clock face" at the base. When viewed from the side, the sculpture takes on the appearance
of a slanted "J" or a "c" from the other side. The main structure is attached to a granite stone base. The sculpture is large and uses square edges, crisp, clean long flowing lines in its structure, contrasting with the natural elements surrounding it. What I find most appealing about this specific sculpture is the combination of art and function. While beautiful to look at, it functions as a scientific device. The subject of the sculpture is to mark the occurrence of the solstice and the equinox. The solstice is an astronomical event that occurs in June and December. The summer solstice marks the longest day of the calendar year and the beginning of summer. The equinox happens two times of the year when night and day are about the same length. Both the solstices and the equinoxes are directly connected with the seasons of the year. The sculpture is simplistic in design. There are only two main parts to the sculpture, not including the base. The main focus of the piece is the point at the top of the "J" that joins to a round silver bar that extends out and over the sculpture. The function of the bar is to cast a shadow onto one of the two silver markers attached to the inner part of the sculptures arching bronze lower front face, signifying the arrival of either the solstice or the equinox.
The sculpture simultaneously combines aspects of astronomy, physical science, and contemporary art. Since the dawn of time mankind has struggled to know the seasons for planting, harvesting, hunting. Knowing when to plant crops and when to harvest was crucially important for early mankind's survival, and the Via Solaris is about tapping into that primeval need to be in touch with the natural rhythm of the world. I find it soothing to sit and look this enormous timepiece, especially in the fast-paced college environment. My first impression regarding the Via Solaris has not changed, but a deeper understanding of the purpose it serves has. This sculpture is a unique, one of a kind, and specifically built to sit on the Indiana State Campus in front of Stalker Hall. The Via Solaris is a good representation of combining art and a teaching
tool.