The sculpture Log Ramps was created by Lloyd Hamrol in 1974. It forms an imposing pyramid out of four disconnected triangular sides made from logs. With this sculpture, he intended to display the natural beauty of the pacific northwest by using logs native to the area. The style of the sculpture is very open and inviting. Many of his creations involved the landscape and creating it with other natural resources. The slope of the ramps and the utilitarian feel of the materials makes the sculpture feel as though it was made to be climbed and explored (Hill).  

In the 50’s paintings began growing dramatically in size. Soon after, sculptures followed suit. In the 60s and 70’s, sculptures started moving from small gallery spaces into open streets and warehouse spaces. Lloyd Hamrol and many others during this time made environmental sculpture, which incorporated the setting into the artwork itself, or created pieces that became their own kind of environment (Andrews). Hamrol made a structure that symbolizes a shelter and forms its own environment. Hamrol sought to incorporate natural materials that match their environment. To this end he made the sculpture using logs made from Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar, which tie the piece to the Pacific Northwest (Western Gallery).

The Log Ramps were created in 1974 but rebuilt again in 1968 because of the remodeling of Parks Hall in south campus (Western Gallery). The main purpose of this location was so the students walking along campus could appreciate his work. Integrating the landscape in Bellingham, the logs and the closed space, as well as the ability to interact with the piece, helps bring in the vibe of nature and trees that the pacific northwest is known for.

 

Andrews, Oliver. Living Materials a Sculptor’s Handbook, University of California Press, 1983. Google Books, Web. 5 Feb. 2018.

Hill, Emily. “Lloyd Hamrol” – Log Ramps, React. Research. Execute! Western Washington University, 17 Nov. 2017. Web. 6 Feb. 2018.

“Log Ramps.” Western Gallery, Western Washington University, westerngallery.wwu.edu/sculpture/log-ramps.

Credits: Madeline Schaffer – did the research about the artist and the history of the sculpture

Shyrra-Nikka Yagumyum – also helped out looking for information about the scultpure and came up with ideas on how we went about posting this blog

Christopher Ignacio – was able to curate ideas on how to put the blog and all the information together