Owen Morrel’s work, Starfinder, reflects Newport News’ role as a center of shipbuilding, military and the aerospace industry. It is also an icon of nautical history with a nod to the astrolabe, an ancient navigational tool. Making connections between past, present, and future technologies, this sculpture encourages visitors to explore new ideas in the art and sciences and collaborative ventures in business and manufacturing to advance our civilization.

Via Partnership was invited by the Newport News Public Art Foundation (NNPAF) to work with developer W. M. Jordan to commission a work of art to anchor Drillfield Plaza, a new 1.5 acre park in Tech Center Research Park in Newport News, Virginia. Via, working with gallerist William Shearburn, curated a list of artists and available works for W.M. Jordan leadership’s consideration. Owen Morrell was the clear choice, with his lifelong interest in astronomy, the open sea, and exploration informing his work.

Via worked with NNPAF, W.M. Jordan, and Morrell throughout the design development, fabrication, and installation process to ensure that the work was installed and ready for the opening of Drillfield Plaza.