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Four maple benches designed as functional works of art.  Like abstract sculptures, they are fluid compositions of sweeping curves that interlock and rearrange themselves according to their position of viewers and users. 

The design is relatively simple; each flat bench rests on a pair of curves that face opposite directions and form a wavy line.  The configuration does not reveal itself immediately, however, and horizontal bands of graphics appear to be more than decorative touches.  But those who give them more than a mere passing glace discover that each one has a specific meaning related to California's history, geography, ethnicity, or industry. 

The first motif replicates petroglyphs, or rock art, made by Native American residents.  The second depicts Southern California cattle brands of the early 1800s. 

The third, which is composed of wavy lines overlaid with a grid and sprinkled with numerals, comes from a topographical map of California.  The fourth, a pattern based on straight lines and angles, represents the electrical circuit of a computer chip.