July 8, 2015

Podcast: What’s Up Bainbridge:
Elegant and monumental 10-foot sundial combines art and science

<i>Podcast: What’s Up Bainbridge:</i> <br>Elegant and monumental 10-foot sundial combines art and science

recreated What's Up logo for Libsyn WordPress 300x300How do you design, build and install a 10 foot steel sundial, one of the biggest in Washington? Why have a sundial in a place where it rains a lot?

Last month, a crane lowered the 10-foot sundial framework onto its 3-foot base in Battle Point Park
Last month, a crane lowered the 10-foot sundial framework onto its 3-foot base in Battle Point Park

The answers to these questions and many more will be answered on Sunday, July 19th at 1 pm at the Ritchie Observatory near the southern parking areas along the service road in Battle Point Park.  The free public event is hosted by the Battle Point Astronomical Association (BPAA).

In this interesting interview, meet Bill Baran-Mickle, a renowned metal artist who designed and built the sundial, and Frank Petrie, a BPAA board member and professional civil engineer, who was one of the main collaborators in the financing and engineering of the project.

Artist Bill Baran-Mickel (left) with BPAA board member Frank Petrie and BCB podcast host Channie Peters
Artist Bill Baran-Mickel (left) with BPAA board member Frank Petrie and BCB podcast host Channie Peters

The elegant and massive 10-foot sundial on a 3-foot base is a stunning work of public art financed with private funds raised from individuals in our community as well as from others far afield.  This sundial represents a confluence of art and science set adjacent to Bainbridge Island’s night sky observatory. This exciting dedication will be an opportunity for our community to experience this beautiful sculpture and ancient time piece together with the artist and many of those who have worked for many years to bring this installation to fruition.

Credit: BCB host: Channie Peters; BCB audio editor: Tim Bird; BCB social media publisher: Barry Peters.