Opinions vary on the controversial topic of hydraulic fracturing (or “fracking”) to extract natural gas in New York. (Read our feature story about fracking here.) The debates have spawned a variety of grassroots efforts around the Valley to raise awareness about the pros and cons of the process, including demonstrations, marches, picketing, and music. One artist, however, used structural art to convey his message.
Surrounded by boutiques and fine restaurants, No Fracking — a sculpture created by Dave Channon — stands not far from the river’s edge in an Ulster County town. It was put in place this summer and will be on view until November 1. “The name and visual message are one,” says Channon. “It is a corroded steel monument to the desperate decline of the fossil fuel era.” He says his intention for creating the piece was to “encourage resistance against high-volume horizontal hydraulic fracturing,” which has been blamed for contaminating water and the environment.
The sculpture is made from welded steel, old tools, barrel hoops, and other discarded metal scraps that Channon was able to recycle.
Do you think you know where to find this rusted representation of the anti-fracking movement? Send us your answer as a comment in the box below. The first reader with the correct response wins a prize.
» Give up? Find the contest answer in our November issue
