his is an example of Borromean rings. They are unique, in that if any one ring is removed, the other two can separate. All three taken together are truly and permanently linked.
This linked feature of the rings has been used over many centuries and throughout many cultures as a symbol of inter-connectedness or of strength through unityhence the title of this piece.
In addition, the societal symbolism goes beyond mere inter-connectedness. If we imagine the rings to be made of some flexible material, which is then squeezed tight, the resulting arrangement is a case where the links must balance their elastic forces against their contact forces. In this piece, I have done just thatpartially squeezed the rings. Each ring is made from a different woodwalnut, maple and cherry that show how three elements, separate and distinct, can come together and achieve unity.
It is for these, and several other reasons, that the International Mathematical Union has adopted a set of stylized Borromean rings, very similar to this piece, for their logo.
2,592 pieces of wood, with 864 per ring. Tubes are 2-1/4 in dia. Each ring is about 17 long and 12 across. Assembled from staved tubes. Staves were cut cross grain, so the rings could be brick laid with long grain glue joints. Shellac sanding sealer, and several coats of water-based poly.
Comments and critiques welcome.
