Many sculptures are a celebration of place, elevating a room or public space. Terrence Karpowicz’s “We Are Getting to That Point” is not one of those sculptures. Karpowicz’s work is a lamentation about our location. It serves as a sign-post which marks the road on which we are traveling.

According to Karpowicz, this road leads to environmental disaster. “We Are Getting to That Point” represents the increasing tension Karpowicz feels from our collective inability to deal with climate change. The large cedar and steel sculpture holds a sturdy, wooden X at its focal point. This universal symbol for prohibition evokes a feeling of division and opposition from the viewer. Instead of welcoming, the sculpture implores us to turn back for fear that we reach that point of no return.

Partially funded by an IAP Grant from Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, City of Chicago.