Steve Tobin’s Intertwined: Exploring Nature’s Networks

Intertwined: Exploring Nature’s Networks features 20 monumental sculptures by Steve Tobin, world-renowned for his works in glass, bronze, ceramic and steel. Intertwined, which runs through Aug. 13, 2023, dramatically captures the unseen power of the natural world while celebrating the important systems that give life to the Garden’s tropical, sub-tropical, and arid collections. (Photo: Hung Truong)

Steve Tobin’s Intertwined: Exploring Nature’s Networks opens at Houston Botanic Garden on Saturday, Jan. 28, featuring 20 monumental sculptures by Steve Tobin, world-renowned for his works in glass, bronze, ceramic and steel. In Houston, his art will elegantly spiral as much as 30 feet above the natural beauty of the Houston Botanic Garden, the Bayou City’s living museum for plants. Intertwined, which runs through Aug. 13, 2023, dramatically captures the unseen power of the natural world while celebrating the important systems that give life to the Garden’s tropical, sub-tropical, and arid collections. 

While inspired by nature, Tobin also incorporates cultural influences – both current and historical – in his work. For instance, the marquee “Steelroots” series, made using recycled oil pipes, includes “Dancing Steelroots” inspired by ancient Japanese calligraphy. “Twistys,” another collection of steel pieces, pays homage to Houston gymnast Simone Biles and the acrobatic way she flows through the air, bringing to mind the way wind flows through the natural world. “Romeo & Juliet,” a pair of cast bronze roots named after the star-crossed lovers in William Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, are installed together so that they are almost touching limbs. 

Steve Tobin’s Intertwined: Exploring Nature’s Networks is an ideal way to reach out to the “art disenfranchised” or “art uninitiated,” as Tobin’s works are accessible and interactive. “A lot of people aren’t necessarily seeking out art. They come to see the Garden, and they get to see the art. It’s a surprise,” he says.

Steve Tobin’s Intertwined: Exploring Nature’s Networks is included in the ticket price for admission to the Garden.

Go to www.hbg.org to buy tickets in advance. Houston Botanic Garden is located at One Botanic Lane off of Park Place Boulevard. Steve Tobin’s Intertwined: Exploring Nature’s Networks is open during regular Garden hours.