Gordon’s project, Wings of Time, draws inspiration from community feedback and the natural beauty of the Old Hickory area. Situated between the Cumberland River to the north and west and Old Hickory Lake to the east, the region hosts numerous Great Blue Heron colonies, symbolic of Tennessee’s heritage. According to Native American tradition, the Great Blue Heron embodies self-determination and progress.

Wings of Time symbolizes the area’s history, particularly influenced by the DuPont factory, while showcasing its present beauty. Standing at almost four feet tall with a wingspan of six feet, these majestic herons evoke a sense of magic and myth, echoing millions of years of existence.

Made of laser-cut acrylic with dichroic film, the herons are approximately six (6) feet across, representing actual life-sized birds. Dichroic film, highly light-sensitive and reflective, transmits color and light. Despite their lightweight nature, these massive and majestic birds are positioned at varying heights to maximize light capture, creating a dazzling display of colors. This creates a mesmerizing “light show” across adjacent surfaces, evoking wonder and delight. Additionally, beautiful crystals are incorporated, resembling raindrops or stars, enhancing the glittering effect.

The installation not only honors the community and complements the architecture but also serves as a delightful counterpart to the planned adjacent history wall. Utilizing both natural and planned lighting, this engaging installation promises to captivate visitors both day and night.