Charon's Steel Styx Passage, 17'h x20'w x7'd

The idea of orbit and circumscribes is often the an important aspect of the content of Van Alstine's work. An orbit implies motion, time, distance, and space - all components of the theme of voyage. The circularity of the orbit also suggests, for this artist, the circularity of the voyage of life. The journeys through Van Alstine's metaphoric stages of the life course are further elaborated through his suggestions of vessels of two types: vessels as modes of transportation, and vessels as containers. Moreover, his judicious assignment of titles helps to guide interpretation and unify meaning

Van Alstine's use of mythological reference occurs in Charon's Steel Styx Passage, his most recent outdoor sculpture. In this abstract evocation of the final voyage, Van Alstine interprets death as a universal experience both frightening and exhilarating. Charon's ferry to the Underworld swings in a wide arc above a large buoy which suggests yet another planetary orb. The ferry, its extended oar, and a coin (the token price of the voyage) are held aloft by a mast which is anchored by a marine cleat and a stone. With this complex interweaving of symbols, forms, found objects, and title, Van Alstine merges the waters of Styx with the spiritual ether of the cosmos.

From exhibition catalog essay “Vessels and Voyages” by Nick Capasso, curator

DeCordova Museum and Sculpture Garden 1996