click on photos for larger images     Birth of Ideas	Awarded his first large-scale public commission in the fall of 1997, Ehlenberger installed six separate works in a group of statuesque old oak trees in City Park, New Orleans. The first three works are made up of multiples of singular but unique elements working together to create their impact. The last three works are essentially singular in nature consisting of large-scale abstract and figurative forms. The first work, entitled "Birth of Ideas", consists of ten silicone "cocoons" suspended amidst clusters of spanish moss from branches 20-30 feet in the air. Each cocoon is 5-7 feet in length and envelopes a cluster of glowing neon in its expanded, lowermost portion. Somewhat eerie in their appearance, these luminous forms of black or clear silicone hint at the transformation of light as energy into an as-yet-undefined maturity. The cocoon, a shelter for transformation, in this case becomes a representation of the evolution of a thought or an idea.
Arcs	Across from "Birth of Ideas" is "Arcs", a Calder-esque array of suspended 4'-6' brilliant multi-colored neon arcs. Gracefully shifting and rocking with the wind, these simple luminous curves come together in concert as a mobile of light playful amongst the old and gnarled branches of the oak.
Hanging Stalaglites	Next to "Arcs" is "Hanging Stalaglites", a collection of singular undulating neon tubes hanging vertically, no two pieces the same. Reflecting a style Ehlenberger has established over the years, each tube is hand-blown with sensual curves and evocative blends of color.
Celebration I Celebration II	Moving further, one comes upon "Celebration I" and "Celebration II", the two large signature pieces for the show. Based in the constructivist tradition, these two sculptures incorporate subtle as well as bold uses of light, shadow and color reflecting Ehlenberger's unique, contemporary interpretation of the early 20th century style.
The Threshold (I)	The final piece of the series, and the most enigmatic, is entitled "The Threshold (I)". A surreal diorama, "Threshold" portrays a lifesize male figure climbing toward (or away from?) a doorway suspended high in the tree.

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