Flowers appeal to all kinds. For over a decade, California-based sculptor Clark Sorensen has brought a whole new meaning to watering the flowers. At his basement studio in San Francisco’s Mission District, he handcrafts floral-themed urinals for his well-heeled customers.
As he says, you are not likely to find anything like these anywhere else. Orchids, poppies, hibiscus, hollyhocks, tulips, daffodils, lilies and more, most made to order. These urinal sculptures, made of durable high-fire porcelain, the same material as commercial fixtures, are fully functional and are meant to be installed and used. At prices running between $5,000 and $10,000 though they are unlikely to become an American standard.
Sorensen, a graduate of the University of Utah, says his works are “inspired by nature (and the call of it.).” Going with the flow, his creations have been featured in many design and art magazines. Since 2002 his creations have also appeared in numerous public shows. In 2008, for example, he was a special guest at The California Orchid Exposition in San Francisco and last February repeated the performance in the same city at the Pacific Orchid Exposition. Presently, his yellow Paphiopedilum orchid urinal is offered at US$8,900 but a pink Phalaenopsis orchid is a hundred dollars cheaper at US$7,900. These, as with all the sculptures, are created in realistic form and colours.
Clients are obviously flush with money – those prices do not include shipping or installation. And don’t be impatient. After putting up a 50% deposit, depending on current production schedules, expect two to four months for delivery – anywhere in the world.
Some people encountering these have been peed off. Women in particular have voiced their distaste at male micturations on flowers, which, they say, are feminine in form. Yet, according to Sorenson, many of his customers are women buying for their husbands – perhaps a suggestive Jack-in-the-pulpit or pitcher plant, both at US$7,900.
You can view these and many others at
www.clarkmade.com. Meanwhile, the whizz kid has certainly given a new meaning to taking a leak.
