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Photography by Edward C. Robison III.

Retiring Bob

Nathalie Miebach’s Retiring Bob transforms scientific data into a sculptural exploration of Hurricane Bob, a 1991 storm that struck the U.S. East Coast. Using reed and wood, Miebach maps the storm’s trajectory and intensity, with colors and objects representing wind speed, pressure, and temperature. This tactile, three-dimensional form bridges art and science, offering a new perspective on nature’s power and complexity. By visualizing natural phenomena, Miebach highlights the interconnectedness of data, art, and the environment, urging us to understand and respect the systems that shape our planet while reflecting on nature’s unpredictability and resilience.

ArtistNathalie Miebach, born 1972
Date2013
MediumWood, paper, and weather data
Dimensions60 x 60 in. (152.4 x 152.4 cm)
Credit LineCrystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas
ClassificationSculpture
On ViewYes
Retiring Bob60 × 60 in.Standard/Movie Poster40 × 27 in.

This artwork's face covers about 3.3× the area of a standard movie poster.Drawn to the same scale.