‘From the Earth to the Sky’ Joins Collection of Terrazzo Public Art at Phoenix Airport

As a painter, Dambrova looked for inspiration to the microscopic sea creatures called diatoms that swarmed in the shallow sea where Phoenix now stands. For his terrazzo design, he created symbols based on diatoms, discovering a theme of cross-cultural star imagery that touches upon the interconnection of life.

“My intention is to metaphorically connect the earth and the sky on the same plane within the design,” the artist said. “The fact that we are using such durable long-lasting materials installed by masters in their field means that the floor will be a long-lasting and memorable icon and experience for millions of travelers who journey through Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport in the years to come.”

Bruce Thornham of Advance Terrazzo in Phoenix, the terrazzo installer on the project, enjoyed instructing the artists about how epoxy terrazzo works and observing how as their understanding increased, it shaped their designs.

“Working with artists new to terrazzo is always exciting,” said Thornham. “We get to rediscover what makes our work and craftsmanship so special, and bring an artist’s work to life in the medium of a terrazzo floor that will last for years.”