Gateway to the Arts
Happy Shapes To Accentuate Ross Underpass
Last month a committee voted to select the so called “Happy Shapes” art project, 30 glowing LED light sculptures installed on each side, for the underpass at Ross Avenue and Central Expressway. Meetings were held at the Latino Cultural Center with input from nearby residents and businesses. A project submitted by the team of Joe O’ Connell and Blessing Hancock of Tucson, one of the three finalist in the competition, is expected to begin later this year. Most Bryan Place Residents seem to favor a glow stick project submitted by Seattle artist, Koryn Rolstad, however there were concerns that it would not meet TxDOT approval and fit into the budget allowed. Even though those decisions would be made outside of the committee, a fair vote on the project which was also based on feedback submitted from meeting attendees favored the Happy Shapes project. All projects submitted offered lighting which was the main goal.
Though the Glow Sticks project was the overwhelming choice of Bryan Place residents, other fundraising ideas and projects being discussed to make this a safer, more vibrant passage way from East Dallas to the Arts District. Efforts are being made with TxDOT to provide additional lighting of the underpass. Downtown Dallas, Inc. has said they will assist with more clean up of the area by power washing the walls and pillars.
If you would like more information or would like to make a financial contribution, please contact: David Allen at a_davidallen@hotmail.com, 2148878708 OR Wayne Smith at jws.gar@juno.com, 2147071951. Donations can be made to: Gateway To The Arts District, P.O. Box 710206, Dallas, Texas 75371.
