BLOCKANDSHIM

BLOCKANDSHIM is owned and operated by Darling Gonzalez and David Duskin. We work individually and in collaboration with each other and other creatives on projects that include fine art, site specific public art, private commissions, and placemaking. When possible we prefer to handle everything from design through fabrication and installation but we also work with trusted specialists and subcontractors depending on the necessary expertise, scope, materials, and timeline of the project.

DAVID DUSKIN + DARLING GONZALEZ

David and Darling met in graduate school in San Francisco. He was getting an MFA in Sculpture, she was there for an MFA in Industrial Design. They became friends almost immediately and soon after started working together as much as possible. Their collaboration is natural and potent. Both have extensive experience working independently and collaboratively, both spent years teaching university students in their respective disciplines. Both have a critical eye, a love of materials and working with their hands. Today, some twenty years later, they have a vibrant and diverse practice, two wonderful kids, a home, a studio, a halfpipe and a dog.

Throughout the concept and design process, Darling and David work closely. It usually starts with a site or a landscape. They spend time there. They research, draw, make rough models, find out what the place needs or wants, and figure out if adding or changing something will honor the site and engage people. The resulting work is driven by where it is and who it is for. Once the concept comes into focus, Darling takes the lead on proposals, models, drawings, and engineering prerequisites while David takes the lead on fabrication and installation. Finish work and celebrations are done together.

Their shared passion for the transformative effects of art, design, and placemaking has recently led David and Darling to co-found PETALUMA RIVER PARK with friends. The park is a shared space that connects people, art, and nature. It is a chance to apply their mutual experience and skills to a public purpose that will benefit future generations for years to come.