John M. Hock The Gates

This month we are exploring the amazing work of John M Hock. We have one of his mammoth sculptures in our park. It is titled The Gates. John studied architecture and you can definitely see it in his sculptures. He utilizes 3 aspects of abstract construction in his works, Weight, Height, and Volume.
The Gates is a massive piece which stands over 12 ft, high. As you approach this piece you can feel the massive nature of the piece, though its intricacies makes it astounding, from each angle you get a different feel of the piece. When you first approach, it seems like there is so much going on from top to bottom. Openings and indents, amazing. Then as you look deeper into it you can see how the sculpture invites you in with its curves and vastness. I find it fun to see new shapes in it every time I drive by it. The Gates are located at the top of our entrance hill and can be seen from a many vantage points as you approach it.
John M. Hock has found a way to take painted steel and create this sculpture that takes your breathe away.

The Gates are made of painted steel which was stained and then waxed. The patina on this piece gives it more depth as each year passes.  If you would like to enjoy some of our many sculptures please visit our park located in Hamilton, Ohio.