Parts per trillion by Steve Gurysh displays an archive of objects found along the Bow River Watershed in the form of earthenware ceramic sculptures. Gurysh developed his project while participating in the Watershed+ Dynamic Environment Lab where he engaged with the employees and processes of the UEP Department. This work is the final culmination of three years of research and development.

The watershed is constantly changing from natural and imposed influences, but these sculptures preserve a moment in time while revealing the complex and dynamic relationships that shape the Bow River Watershed. Gurysh started the process of creating the physical archive by 3D scanning a selection of artifacts. These included a recently unearthed bison skull, a Cliff Swallow’s nest, graffitied rocks, and a centrifugal separator. Those 3D scans were then translated into physical forms by a ceramic 3D printer. Gurysh used the traditional method of pit-firing the ceramics in Edworthy park along the Bow River where in the early 20th century a brick factory used to be located.

This work is on view at Contemporary Calgary as part of the Dynamic Environment exhibition until January 5, 2020.