Fractures                                                                                      

The way that pieces broke is really interesting. I would of thought that they would break on the weakest point - narrowest part of the shape, following the construction ( coils) line.
But no, breaks are closer to the middle of the shape and do not follow the lines of coils.
Well, at least I know I can't blame fractures on bad claywork.

I am questioning everything: materials, construction method, design.....

I don't think it is the weight of sculpture as I did not get very far with the assembly, and it was not the bottom pieces that were breaking.

Somebody familiar with the way the skeleton and human body works says that she is familiar with this type of fractures. That is the way our bones break, apparently.
I like the comparison to the skeleton and bones. It speaks of organic origins that intrigue me and inspire my work.

I have attempted a quick internet search of the bone fractures, and just as quickly realized that I could never ever be a doctor.  I can deal with x rays, just not with flesh, blood and pain.

 It is about tension and twist, I think.

During the assembly I was not very comfortable with the way the whole structure moves if the bolts are not tightened (hand tightened, not tool). Yet if it is tightened it becomes too rigid.

I have come to terms that right now, sphere is not going to happen.

My next move will be to try different assembly method.

Almost two months to the exhibition opening - I have plenty of time.

First  assembly                                                         

The big day has arrived – no more postponements – I have to find out if I can put my sculpture together. Will it work?

It is a beautiful day, and the family has gathered to help. I feel very nervous and keep saying to myself that if it doesn't work nobody will die. It is not as if I’m constructing a bridge or a building.

 In other words, worst thing that can happen is not the worst thing that I can imagine happening.

Oh well, that is comforting. But my hands are still shaking as I’m bringing all components to the grassy area in front of the house.

Positioning the first ring clusters roughly where they should be seems like a good starting point.

And so it begins: 

Tie down straps are really, really useful. They pull pieces in, preventing them from leaning too much out of the center.

Second row is already difficult to handle.

Every nut and bolt is adjustable point. If it is too loose, the whole structure moves out of shape. If it is tightened, it becomes rigid. It is really difficult to find the "just right" position.

And I am beginning to see the complexity of putting it all together. And I am starting to panic. I sense that it will not work ( but I was wrong before, so I try to calm myself down).

And this is when we notice that pieces are starting to break. You know how it goes...first you notice one ( oh no!) than you start looking and notice more. Too many.

Time to stop and pull back.

Time to re-think.

Pull it all apart and go back to the drawing board.

Again.