A Project of the Tucson Pima Arts Council

Box Man
by Pittman & McGee
Sponsor: Marshall Foundation
Nonprofit: Tucson Symphony Music Education Programs

Our proposed sculpture for this year's Luminarias del Pueblo is a work based on Kobe Abe's The Box Man. The main character in Abe's novel is a hybrid of the flaneur and Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man. Just as Abe's character notes a difference, we too propose this is not a portrait of a homeless person. Our Box Man is more of an invisible nomad. His origin and future is as mysterious as the light which glows from inside each night.

During the day, the Box Man exists in place. One is not sure how to approach. Perhaps there is someone inside, if so, can he see me? What are his intentions? At night, it is clear that someone is indeed awake inside the box for a light is on. Still, there is the mystery of just what is it the Box Man is doing? Is he waiting for something? When does he sleep?

In the process of developing this proposal, we also felt that this piece suggests a functional design for the urban nomad. The solar panels give the nomad the possibility of electricity. Although our sculpture as proposed would be too heavy for an individual, the potential for a secondary application exists and we would hope the piece would engage others in that type of conversation.

Materials Description

The three main materials to be used are cedar, solar panels and fluorescent lighting. The body of the Box Man will be carved by Margaret in cedar and painted. The box itself will be a wooden frame to support the solar panel facing. The panels will operate as the power for the light at night. Light will glow from the eyehole in the box and the opening at the bottom. These fluorescent lights will last longer and draw less energy than incandescent lighting. The lights will be controlled by a timer that allows the lights to go on and off at intervals through the night.

The completed sculpture should stand approximately seven feet. The proportions will be similar to those of man with the added height given from the box structure.