NightWood Artist Statement and Biographies
Artist Statement
There is something powerful about being in the woods at night: a connection to our ancient past, to old traditions and long-forgotten experiences. It conjures a host of emotions, memories, and fantasies unique to each visitor. NightWood awakens these nocturnal ideas through a combination of sound, light, and sculpture, evoking an atmosphere that stimulates the imagination.
The Portal
Since ancient times, mystical portals have allowed passage from our human world to the realms of faeries, spirits, and gods. As we approach this portal, woven of trees and light, we draw closer to the unknown. Once we cross the threshold, the journey begins
The Earth Growers
Three earthen mounds nestle at the bottom of the gentle slope. They are the stuff of life: a dense network of nutrient-rich soil and fungi growing and greening the earth. This is the birthplace of the trees, their roots and saplings nurtured by the earth. This is indeed the Heart of the Forest.
The Wildwood
On the knoll and in the valley, a community of trees buzzes with life, linked by a complex web of shared nutrients, electrons, scents, and sounds. United by bonds of protection, friendship, and love, it is an interconnected family where each tree has a unique voice, but all stand together to grow and thrive.
The Hollow
In a secluded hollow deep in the forest, a great tree has died. Through flame and ember, its body rejoins the earth, while its spirit floats aloft, a gossamer canopy shimmering with hope and rebirth. As trees old and young bear witness, the cycle of life begins anew.
The Crossroads
The Crossroads is a transitory space of choice and opportunity, where movement and change are the only ways forward. As we pass through the arches, light ripples throughout the garden—an affirmation of our own agency and a reminder of consequences.
The Lane
The lane is straight, narrow, and inescapable. The rigid geometry of the landscape leaves no possibility for hesitation. Bursts of light and sound thrust us forward through the brigade of trees—onward!
The Keepsakes
Surrounded by sturdy stone walls and sheltered by tall trees, the garden is a place for memory. Domes of glass hold artifacts in suspension – the delicate work of human hands, crafted with skill and purpose, shaped by experience, and preserved with care.
The Stream
Water is the lifeblood of the forest. Along the banks of this stream, life flourishes from the smallest sapling to the greatest and most ancient of trees. It courses through the small valley, sometimes no more than a trickle, but always onward – powerful, yet generous.
The Nave of the Maples
The ancient maples reach for heights which humans may only long for. Their arms interlock above – an ornate ceiling for a grand room within the forest. There is drama in height, in space, in reaching, yearning – but there is room too for thanksgiving, peace, and shelter from the rains.
The Homecoming
At the end of every journey is the sweetness of home. A stroll down the garden path reveals both the familiar and the eternal – the crunch of stone underfoot, the winding trail of flower petals, and the cycles of growth by which seasons, years, and lives are measured.
Our Design and Implementation Partner
Clerestory Light
Clerestory Light is an interdisciplinary design and production studio specializing in unique immersive experiences and dynamic landmarks. With backgrounds in theatre, music, technology, architecture, anthropology, and public history, we seek out the spirit of special places and help to tell their stories.
Chris Bocchiaro
Creative Director and Lighting Designer
Chris Bocchiaro brings unique experience from his work in both the construction industry and the arts. His deep passion for experiential placemaking has led him to explore a wide range of artistic formats: from found-space theatre and opera, to public building illuminations, to large-scale sculpture and immersive art in urban and rural environments.
A lighting designer by training and systems integrator by experience, Chris has illuminated interiors and exterior spaces throughout the Northeast, including immersive environments for The Trustees of Reservations, the Emerald Necklace Conservancy, Apollinaire Theatre Company, Emursive Productions, Boston Opera Collaborative, The Thomas Cole National Historic Site, and The Mount, Edith Wharton’s Home.
Chris is a member of the Illuminating Engineering Society and holds a BFA in Theatrical Design from Emerson College.
Megan Kinneen
Scenic Designer
Megan Kinneen’s work draws from her training in theater design, architecture, and illustration. She strives to share narratives and histories through non-verbal means. Her interests lie in finding new and innovative ways of preserving and presenting historic buildings and cultural heritage sites through artistic augmentations and interpretations. Additional design work includes projects with Actor’s Shakespeare Project, ART Institute, Hub Theatre, Revels North, Apollinaire Theatre and The Crane Estate at Castle Hill.
Greg Hanson
Composer and Sound Designer
Greg Hanson is a sound designer, audio systems designer, audio engineer, and musician. His passion for audio production is supported by his Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Recording Technology from California State University, Monterey Bay, and his Master of Music degree in Music Technology from New York University, Steinhardt. Greg has extensive experience in immersive theater, live production, and audio recording. He serves as the Head of Audio and in-house Sound Designer at the McKittrick Hotel, home of Sleep No More, in NYC’s Chelsea neighborhood.
Ben Lieberson
Associate Scenic Designer & Technical Director
Ben Lieberson is a technical director, designer, and fabricator of scenery for theater and live events. Past collaborators include Commonwealth Shakespeare Company, Central Square Theater, Company One, Actors Shakespeare Project, Liars & Believers, Arlekin Players, Hub Theater Company, and Flat Earth Theatre. Ben holds a BA in Visual Arts from Marlboro College.
Zach Dobryn
Lead Lighting Technician & Programmer
Zach Dobryn is a lighting technologies engineer and programmer with experience in theatrical and architectural installations. He currently manages the permanent dynamic lighting systems for some of the most iconic buildings in Manhattan. Zach holds a BFA in Theatre Design and Technology from SUNY Purchase.
Jacob Ferrante
Lead Audio Technician
Jacob Ferrante (Audio Lead) is a New York City-based Production Manager and Audio Engineer with extensive experience in corporate live events, concerts, and immersive theatrical installations. He holds an MBA with a concentration in Accounting and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Sound Recording Technology and Cello Performance. At Nightwood, Jacob serves as the Audio Lead, blending technical skill with creativity to deliver a captivating audio experience. Known for his dedication to quality and his solutions-oriented mindset, Jacob amplifies wonder and imagination through every soundscape he builds.