To me the figures represent the transformation of the Peninsula from a heavy extraction economy to a more culture-based economy — at least that's what we're trying to instill here.

The art here is playful enough to break down the boundaries of suspicion and fear some people have around contemporary art. Some people have reticence about viewing art, fearing they'll be thought stupid if they don't 'get it.' These sculptures engage them without being threatening, while still adhering to the principles of contemporary art.

We're like the forest: Things accumulate, things die and disappear. It's an organic process.

We are not going to be able to change the culture of Spring Fling in one or two years, but in order to preserve its tradition, having students show a sense of responsibility is a step in the right direction.

We realize that as it is, the culture of Spring Fling is unsustainable, and this gives students the opportunity to somewhat rein in that culture.

During my time in New York I was interested in what was going on in the arts culture — music, galleries, auction houses — that's where I learned as much as I did about art history. It was the vortex of the art world and a fabulous place to get up to speed and develop one's eye.