“Pathways”- Artwork on the right side of the bridge as one enters Main Street.
4’ h x 55’ w x 2” d
Please note; due to the photo, a portion of the sculpture has been cropped out. 33’ out of 55’ is shown in the photo. Wheels will be sculpted on the right side of the bridge too.
Stainless Steel, Black and Teal powder-coat
Installation June 2010
“Pathways” - Artwork to be place on left side of Water Street Bridge.
4’ h x 22’ w x 2” d
Stainless Steel, Black powder-coat
Installation June 2010
Here is the concept drawing for “Pathways”.
Stainless Steel, Black and teal Powder coat
Installation June 2010
“Pathways; Art on Water Street Bridge” by Gillian Christy
I propose creating sculptural low-relief panels that will be attached to the existing fence on Water Street Bridge. The overall artwork is inspired by the pattern that the river and rails create. Within this imagery I propose sculpting details that tell a story, touch on the rich history of Fitchburg and ultimately converge to celebrate the future.
In this artwork, I depict sculptural train tracks that become a brick pathway. The track imagery conveys the connection of diverse populations, both past and present, arriving in Fitchburg. The track merging into a brick pattern also signifies a pathway that is shared by all.
As New England’s Machine City, many fine products were produced and invented in Fitchburg. On either end of the artwork, sculpted water wheels, gears, spinning mills, and modern bicycle wheels, are composed to create a sense of motion along the tracks and tides of the water. In order to unify these different wheels they will be powder coated glossy black. These details also establish a beginning and end to the artwork.
While the tracks, wheels and brick pattern gesture towards the industrial history of Fitchburg, it is important to convey the natural elements that surround the area as well. In the drawings, where the river is a rippling pool, stainless steel and the powder coated teal color will alternate. It is important to note that these also look like rings found on a tree signifying the passing of time and age of the city.
The stainless steel paper detail that appears to float elegantly pays homage to the Train Depot that once stood, and the memory of things from the past. It is a recollection of written memories, spoken word, stories and lives lived within the hills of Fitchburg. From that central point, the paper pattern will be cut out of the river shape to continue the theme and also appear as ripples within the water.
The overall artwork will be a beautiful integration of Fitchburg imagery. The pieces stretch across the fence, capturing movement as the materials, shapes and forms work together to illustrate the story of the city. As one crosses the bridge of art, they will know that they have arrived to Fitchburg’s Main Street.
The artwork will consist of several separate sections of stainless steel panels, with powder-coated teal and black highlights throughout the piece, attached with an aesthetically pleasing method to the fence or posts. A structural engineer will consult on the design to ensure the safety and structural integrity of each sculptural panel and attachment method. The placement and attachment of all pieces associated with the project will receive written approval from the City of Fitchburg and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.
With the additional funds granted by New England Foundation for the Arts the artwork will be able to continue on the left side of the bridge. By expanding the Pathway pattern to the other side, a dynamic visual impact at the bridge will be achieved. All parts will require occasional cleaning, but otherwise no maintenance after installation.
Sentinel & Enterprise →
“Artist to display work on bridge” by Emily Devlin.
I presented a lecture Tuesday, October 27 at FSC in the Ellis White Lecture Hall. This lecture was about public art, and my current thinking on the imagery and artwork that will grace the Water Street Bridge.
Then, upstairs in the Hammond Gallery I discussed the pieces that were on exhibit and the inspiration and process behind creating each piece. Both events were well attended and I received lots of questions and interest from the students. Check out the exhibit! It is up until December 1.
View the exhibition photos by Cate Brown here.
(Above: T&G Staff Photos / MARK C. IDE)
Telegram.com - A product of the Worcester Telegram & Gazette →
Paula Owens wrote a great article which summed up “Inside Outside”, my current exhibition at Fitchburg State College on view at The Hammond Art Gallery October 27-December 1 and the Water Street Bridge project.
Daniel Huber from FATV put together a great short about the project in August 2009.
