Adam Parker-Smith, Frieze, 2021, resin, Mylar and ultralight, PS 33 Annex, Bronx

Frieze is a series of relief sculptures created by artist Adam Parker Smith for the lobby and 1st floor corridor of the PS 33 Bronx Annex. Intended to emulate the famous Parthenon marble frieze in Athens, the piece features a repeating gold decorative pattern with flowing curves and spiral floral shapes. An amphora (an ancient Greek or Roman container with handles and a pointed bottom) serves as a centerpiece for each section. Interrupting this pattern are colorful, playful animal balloons, positioned throughout the installation for children to spot, turning the design into a game of hide and seek and referencing the ancient processions that the piece is inspired by.    

The artwork is made of Mylar balloons, like those you find at a party store, cast in resin. The sculptures, however, are different from the originals as they are not full balloons in the round. Instead, these have been cut in half along the mid-seam producing reliefs that mount flush to the wall. 

Combining references to historical and contemporary culture, Parker Smith has created a whimsical and magical environment for viewers to ponder what is real and what is not and to inspire reflections on the past and connections to today. 

Commissioned as a Sites for Students project, the artist conducted workshops with students at the school, sharing his artistic practice and use of balloons and guiding projects focused on Greco-Roman drawing and sculpture.