News Summary
Nashville is set to begin constructing the ‘Be As Water’ art installation next week, aimed at addressing chronic lighting issues on the Interstate 65 overpass across Arthur Avenue. Funded by $575,000, the project will enhance safety and aesthetics in the area. The dynamic canopy will feature thousands of LED lights and improve the community by transforming a neglected area while creating job opportunities for the formerly incarcerated. The installation will be part of Nashville’s public art collection, marking a unique addition beneath an interstate bridge.
Nashville Initiates “Be As Water” Art Installation to Tackle Lighting Concerns
A new art installation titled “Be As Water” is set to commence construction next week in Nashville, specifically aimed at addressing the chronic lighting issues on the Interstate 65 overpass located across Arthur Avenue. The project, supported by a resolution approved by the Metro Council earlier this month, is funded at $575,000 and is part of a broader effort to enhance safety and aesthetics in the area.
Metro Councilman Brandon Taylor noted that the prior lighting under the overpass has been inoperative for several years, leading residents to label it the “darkest spot Out North.” This initiative, championed by local advocate Simone Boyd, marks a significant step towards improving the situation, as it involves collaborative efforts between the Nashville Department of Transportation (NDOT) and the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT).
Project Features and Timeline
The artist tasked with the project, Alex Braden, plans to design a dynamic canopy consisting of thousands of programmed LED lights. Alongside the lighting installation, the project will also include enhancements such as painting the bridge, necessary electrical installations, sidewalk repairs, and other improvements to the site as detailed by Metro Councilmember Jacob Kupin. The overall installation is anticipated to take around 12 weeks to complete.
Community Impact and Employment Opportunities
This installation is expected to have a significant positive impact on the local community. It has been characterized as a tribute to local elders and an opportunity to transform a neglected area into one of celebration and hope. Metro Arts Public Art Collections Manager Anne-Leslie Owens expressed enthusiasm about the project, noting that it will not only enhance the perception of safety in the neighborhood but also add lasting value to North Nashville.
Moreover, the project is designed to support local employment. The artist will work in conjunction with Art Up Nashville and Project Return, a nonprofit organization that aids formerly incarcerated individuals in their reintegration into the community. Such collaboration underscores the community-driven focus of this art initiative.
Integration into Public Art Collection
The “Be As Water” installation will become part of Nashville’s public art collection, which currently boasts approximately 140 pieces. It stands out as Nashville’s first public art piece installed directly beneath an interstate bridge, demonstrating a commitment to integrating art in innovative and unconventional spaces.
Traffic Management During Construction
Regarding traffic, impacts during the construction period are expected to be minimal. There will be temporary closures of bike lanes and sidewalks, as well as lane shifts along the interstate. NDOT’s Walking & Biking Manager, Anna Dearman, has assured the public that traffic will generally remain manageable in both directions throughout the duration of the construction. The work is designed to take place primarily on weekdays and during off-peak hours to minimize disruptions to commuters.
As the project progresses, detailed information about any unforeseen detours or changes will be communicated to nearby residents and the general public, ensuring transparency and accessibility throughout the construction timeline.
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Additional Resources
- WKRN: Art Installation to Illuminate Overpass in North Nashville
- ARTnews: 2024 in Review – Black Art
- Nashville Post: Secret Sidewalk to Improve Walkability Between Neighborhoods
- Visit Music City: 8 Art Experiences in Nashville During Winter
- OnlyInYourState: Famous Statue Backstory in Nashville
- Wikipedia: Nashville
- Google Search: Public Art in Nashville
- Google Scholar: Art Installations Nashville
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nashville
- Google News: Nashville Art Installation
Author: HERE Nashville
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