Artwork copyright Gary Bates. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Gary Bates. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Artwork copyright Gary Bates. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission.

Artwork copyright Gary Bates. Photo courtesy of Jens J Selvig III.

Artwork copyright Gary Bates. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Rain Scale, 2009

Gary Bates
American (born 1946)

Location: Green River College, Auburn

About the Artwork

Rain Scale is an interactive kinetic sculpture by artist Gary Bates. It is made up of a 36-foot arch spanning a pond, topped by an 18-foot diameter hollow ring. The ring collects rain water and eventually tips over, cascading a shower of water into the pond below. The artist notes, "Water is the starter of this piece and gravity is the motor."

This artwork was acquired for the State Art Collection in partnership with Green River College.

About the Artist

Montana-based sculptor Gary Bates creates kinetic sculptures for public spaces. His artworks feature elements that respond to or are moved by the surrounding landscape and environment. He received a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the Kansas City Art Institute.