Inspired by the rich history of olive groves in Sylmar, Elaia is a trio of bronze illuminated sculptures consisting of elegant, swirling olive branches that hang in the main lobby of the El Cariso Gymnasium. The name Elaia is derived from the Greek word for olive. As light hits the sculptures, the experience and spirit of the lobby will reference light being filtered by the canopy of an olive tree. Each chandelier is approximately six feet tall and two feet in diameter and made from 1/16” laser cut bronze patterns of an olive branch. The cylindrical form of the three chandleries compliments the circular form of the lobby. By referencing the history of agriculture in Sylmar, the image of the olive grove represented by the sculptures will be an ever-present reminder of the land and the history of Sylmar.
