The title of the piece in and of itself implies a strong sense of connectedness, and an interaction between the individual parts that make up the work as a whole—but can also be extended to thinking about the piece in relation to the community of which it has become a part. In looking at the physicality of the sculpture, ‘interlocking’ manifests in the literal connection between each puzzle piece that works to create the entirety of the work. Each one fits perfectly into those around it, and they all gently curve together to create a holistic form that welcomes people to use it in whatever way they wish.

In spite of the close connection between the individual pieces, there is a variation in the heights of each piece of the puzzle, which only seems to add to the overall inviting and almost whimsical feel of the work. These differences in height make for more comfortable seating, by working to form arm rests, foot rests, back support, etc. This stylistic choice adds a playful aspect to the piece and encourages a more involved interaction with it. The fact that Interlocking is comprised of three separate pieces that all curve towards one another to form the whole also allows for more interaction with the public sphere, in the sense that the breaks between each piece enable people to come and go between and around the work. It is essentially an open circle, so one can literally stand in the middle of the piece and be surrounded by it, becoming a part of the art itself in more ways than one.

The placement of the bench in the middle of the busiest courtyard on the Lab School’s campus also works to add to the piece’s already strong presence. Hundreds of students walk past it on a daily basis, and it is often where many people spend passing periods when the weather is comfortable. After the school day lets out, Interlocking becomes an even more focused center of activity as students sit on the piece and talk, lean up against it, climb on top of it, and play games around it or involving it, There is no doubt that Interlocking exemplifies Ferrari’s artistic ideals perfectly, and has gone beyond them in many ways. Thanks to its siting and purpose, Interlocking has developed a very strong presence and has become a focal point of the Lab Schools’ community.