Inflorescence

by Liz Hickok & Phil Spitler

Inflorescence, an immersive art installation, was completed in April 2022 at 250 Third Street (the Paseo next to Yoshi Sushi). Conceived by San Francisco artists Liz Hickok and Phil Spitler, Inflorescence includes photographic and augmented reality depictions of California poppies and other indigenous wildflowers printed on aluminum. The title Inflorescence refers to the arrangement of a cluster of flowers on a floral axis, and the process of flowering, but also appropriately suggests fluorescence and light. The artists were inspired by California poppies because they are delicate yet resilient survivors that are often the first to return after wildfires, drought and storms. The flower projections on the walls enhance the immersive art installation.

The second installation, Shaken - Not Stirred, is a steel sculpture by Bay Area artist Richard Starks. Over the last 50 years, Starks has been fascinated by working metal into imagined shapes. The shapes he creates are inspired by the various things he dreamed up as a youngster - spending endless hours doodling with pencils and pens.

Inflorescence started out as a one-year temporary installation, but in summer of 2024, became updated as the Paseo now has outdoor seating, umbrellas and flower planters. Shaken - Not Stirred has been purchased by Arts Los Altos with generous donations from local residents. We would like to recognize the following generous donors and thank them greatly for supporting Arts Los Altos in bringing multi-sensory public art to downtown Los Altos.

MAJOR DONORS

Sponsor of Inflorescence

Karen Druker

$5000

Chuck Lane and Ray Fernando

Sue and Ken Greathouse

Ginny and Rich Strock 

$2000 to $4999

Lori and Steve Simons

Dave and Ellen Desimone

Legacy Dental Care

Laura Roberts and Bob Jones

Rotary Club of Los Altos