CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A new work of public art at the Interstate 77 and West Trade Street underpass serves as a gateway to Charlotte’s historic West End.
The artwork, which was created by Austrian artist Erwin Redl, consists of three 5-minute sequences of light that loop through a color gradient. Click here to see an animation of the artwork.
“The utilitarian character of the bridge presented unexpected possibilities for people to encounter art without the often-perceived emotional barrier when entering traditional art venues like museums or galleries,” Redl said. “The fleeting moment of driving or walking through the installation becomes a transformative moment to open up our eyes and perceive our environment more intensely.”
“Passing Through Light” is part of revitalization efforts along the northwest corridor. Ronald Carter, president of Johnson C. Smith University, is leading economic development and revitalization efforts in the area where the university is located.
“The underpass was dark, somewhat unsafe and unwelcoming to vehicular traffic and pedestrians entering the city to the east or west,” Carter said. “‘Passing Through Light’ provides a safe and positive experience to residents and visitors entering the west side to visit the university, businesses and neighborhoods.”
In 2009, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Public Art Commission endorsed the underpass as the priority location for the use of business corridor funds generated by the city’s one percent for art ordinance.
JCSU contributed funding through a portion of the West End project proceeds provided by the Wells Fargo Corporation, and Charlotte City Council passed a resolution in support of the location in April 2011.
“Building on Charlotte’s history of getting things done through public/private partnerships, we are proud to work with the university, commission Erwin to animate a public space and add this wonderful work of art to the city’s collection,” said Charlotte-Mecklenburg Public Art Commission Chair Sabrina Brown.
The project is the first in the state to test the NCDOT’s new art on the right-of-way policy, which allows a way for communities and local government to apply for permits for public art projects that encroach on the NCDOT right of way.