Drawing for Nancy HoltThe Sky’s the Limit, 1990
Unrealized proposal for Metawampe Lawn, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts

Plan view for Nancy Holt The Sky’s the Limit, 1990

Unrealized proposal for Metawampe Lawn, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts

Plan view for Nancy Holt The Sky’s the Limit, 1990

Unrealized proposal for Metawampe Lawn, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts

Plan view for Nancy Holt The Sky’s the Limit, 1990

Unrealized proposal for Metawampe Lawn, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts

Plan view for Nancy Holt The Sky’s the Limit, 1990

Unrealized proposal for Metawampe Lawn, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts

Model for Nancy HoltThe Sky’s the Limit, 1990
Unrealized proposal for Metawampe Lawn, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts

Model for Nancy Holt The Sky’s the Limit, 1990

Unrealized proposal for Metawampe Lawn, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts

Model for Nancy Holt's The Sky’s the Limit, 1990

Model for Nancy Holt The Sky’s the Limit, 1990

Unrealized proposal for Metawampe Lawn, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts

1984—2014

The Sky’s the Limit: drawings and model for an unrealized project

Nancy Holt

1990

Unrealized proposal for Metawampe Lawn, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Massachusetts

Dimensions and media various

Developed for Metawampe Lawn at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, The Sky’s the Limit was proposed for an acre and a half of land at the center of campus, described in the project proposal as “undistinguished.” Designed in collaboration with Walker-Kluesing Design Group, the project set eight steeple-like structures, seven octagonal and one twelve-sided on the site, carefully oriented in relation to the sun.

Each structure had a distinct form, designed to cast particular shadows on the ground on selected days of the year. One of the eight structures, a twelve-sided form at the center, was designed to cast shadows at solar noon on the summer solstice, aligning with steel shadow patterns embedded in the ground. The structures were to be carefully positioned in relation to walking routes through the campus.

The project was not realized because of competing university building plans.

The sculptural elements, pointing skyward and aligning with certain celestial phenomena, form a link between the earth and the universe.

Nancy Holt, 1990

Project proposal

The Sky’s the Limit: drawings and model for an unrealized project

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