While Thomas Sayre is a Raleigh-based artist and architect, he has constructed works of art all over the world. To create his art, Sayre uses earth and soil from the ground where his sculptures will eventually stand to form earth casts. The three giant rings in the NCMA Park, also known as Gyre, were constructed in 1999 and are one of the Museum’s most photographed artworks.
This PBS documentary introduces viewers to the magic of Thomas Sayre’s artistic vision and process.
Earth casting is an affordable way of making very big things that are very strong and permanent. But more important than that, it’s a way of working whereby human intention—what I want, what I engineer—is in balance with nature, in this case the geology of the ground, which pushes back and affects the work.
—Thomas Sayre
Gyre‘s resonance shifts and changes with the seasons:
Find Yourself in a Mirrored Labyrinth
The NCMA adds another interactive sculpture to its ever-growing collection of outdoor art in the Museum Park.
Paired with a Purpose
As they work with outside consultants to reconsider and reinstall their collections, NCMA curators are reimagining the People’s Collection, connecting works of art that have never been displayed together, hoping to spark curiosity and new insights.
Toxic Beauty: Aerial Photographs Offer Warnings
Shows at the NCMA and its satellite museum, SECCA, connect art and environmentalism with powerful images.