Wrapped In Sunbeams is a distinctive shade structure, taking the form of a barn and crafted from dichroic glass, adorned with a weathervane featuring an orange fruit on top. The dichroic glass design continually produces captivating arrays of soft pastel-colored light and shadows, offering an ever-changing visual experience throughout the day.
Serving as a communal space for staff and residents of the Restorative Care Village, this functional installation is not only a landmark but also a gathering spot for socializing, seeking shade, and participating in outdoor activities.
Aligned with the core theme of Movement and Transformation at the Restorative Care Village, Wrapped In Sunbeams pays homage to the institution’s historical farming identity and its significant contributions to rehabilitation medicine over the past century. The orange-shaped weathervane on the structure and the title “Wrapped In Sunbeams” draw inspiration from a 1902 Los Angeles Times article describing the County Poor Farm as a place “wrapped in sunbeams and wreathed with flower gardens.”
Established in 1888 to assist farming families without access to medical services, Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, initially known as “The County Poor Farm,” sold oranges to fund medical assistance for those in need. Over time, it evolved into a leading medical facility specializing in rehabilitation medicine, while maintaining agricultural operations on-site. Today, Rancho Los Amigos is renowned for its innovations in healthcare and is ranked among America’s top rehabilitation hospitals.
Wrapped In Sunbeams contributes vibrant colors, a sense of lightness, and healing energy to the lives of individuals undergoing profound physical and mental transformations at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center. This uplifting space serves as a memorable backdrop for those on their recovery journey, creating shared moments with friends and family who visit.
Category:InstallationYear:2023Designers:Matthew Mazzotta, Canton, New York, USAManufacturer:Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, Downey, California, USA
