Made from industrial materials, the large-scale steel and cast concrete Fourth of Firth of Forth stands impressively at almost fourteen feet high, commanding one of the back corners of the sculpture park. According to the artist, the structure of the sculpture suggests a particular double-cantilevered Scottish bridge, characterized by its massive size and peculiarity of line. The suspended, curved concrete element appears to be drawn and torqued, creating an illusion of tension building between its metal supports. The title refers to a bridge section and “firth” is a Scottish term meaning a long narrow inlet of the sea. These words as well as the physical forms and properties, allude to the crossing of water between opposite ports. Hehemann’s focused interest and obvious skills in engineering are contributing factors to his role as co-owner of Vector Custom Fabricating in Chicago, which has been in operation since 1978, the year following his graduation from the University of Illinois with a MFA in sculpture. Since then Hehemann has been represented at many exhibitions in the mid-west region, including several recent Pier Walk annuals, held at Chicago’s historic navy Pier since 1995 and now recognized as the world’s largest outdoor international sculpture show. Fourth of Firth of Forth was on view there in 1998. In the past few years, Hehemann has been working on sculptures commissioned by the Department of Cultural Affairs of Chicago and other projects. | | 
Fourth of Firth of Forth, 1998
steel, concrete
162" x 216" x 98"
Courtesy of the Artist
Photo: David Steele |
