Recent unveilings of public art has peaked interest on the number of new projects being created and raised awareness of existing pieces. Lowell’s public art collection includes several styles that highlight unique city themes. The new pieces create evocative perspectives of the city’s skyline, color palette, and history.
Lowell in Color, Skyline, and Hydro
“Lowell in Color,” a bright and colorful collage of city landmarks, was recently installed at the Joseph M. Downes Parking Garage on John Street. The piece, by artist Frank Casazza, interprets and represents city images and icons with a bright color palette. Another addition is “Skyline,” a series of 3 panels that represent abstract images of Lowell skylines. Created by artist Andrew Szava-Kovats, “Skyline” combines actual Lowell buildings with imaginary and creative elements to emphasize the dominant brick surfaces of downtown in contrast with the colorful atmosphere. Both projects were initiated and coordinated by the Cultural Affairs and Special Events office (CASE) with the Cultural Organizations of Lowell’s Creative Committee providing review and recommendations of submissions. “Lowell in Color” was supported by Lowell’s Parking Department.
These pieces follow the September unveiling of “Hydro” by artist Nancy Selvage. This Cultural Organization of Lowell (COOL) project was initiated in 2011, and is a major art piece in the Hamilton Canal Innovation District’s Utopian Park. The sculpture, “creates a playful interactive experience for children to explore the journey of water flowing and swirling through a ‘turbine’ gateway that confidently strides forward to greet and embrace the public,” said Selvage.
Lowell Public Art Walk
To quote City Manager Eileen Donoghue, “coming upon an original work of art in unexpected places is a wonderful and surprising way to discover the work of our creative community.”
Artists have long created art that has become familiar sites for Lowellians over the years. Lowell’s public art collection includes 15 plus pieces throughout downtown.
Examples include,The Kerouac Commemorative, within Eastern Canal Park on Bridge Street, honors hometown author Jack Kerouac and his literary accomplishments.
The Dutton Street Mural, created in the 70’s, depicts life for the Irish in Lowell. Decatur Way, a walkway and art space features murals from local artists, poetry installations, and pavement pigment drawings. The collection includes sculptures depicting life in Lowell, its history, and its imagery through various forms. Sculptures include “The Worker,” a depiction of an Irish canal worker in Mack Plaza; “The Lowell Sculptures,” three pieces of industrial symbols at Boarding House Park; “Agapetime,” a piece “that symbolizes a universal tribute to the family [Tsongas] and those families of immigrant heritage” at Lower Locks; “Homage to Women,” celebrates the contributions of women in the 19th century; and a James McNeil Whistler statue next to the Whistler House museum on Worthen Street. These sculptures appear throughout several locations in Lowell and provide milestones and memorials for the history and continued progression of the city.
For more information visit the Public Art page on LikeLowell.