The public is invited to join the City of Roanoke and the Roanoke Arts Commission (RAC) for the dedication of a new hanging sculpture on Wednesday, June 23, at 9 a.m. in the Market Square Walkway – the pedestrian bridge that connects the Gainsboro Neighborhood and Hotel Roanoke to the Market area in downtown Roanoke.
According to RAC Chairman Doug Jackson, the installation of a hanging sculpture that gives a nod to the city’s railroad history seemed like the perfect addition to a bridge that spans the busy ribbon of track that runs through downtown. Titled “Beneath the Roundhouse,” the sculpture was selected last spring by a citizen panel, and is a project from the 2009-2010 public art work plan.
The art was created by Edwin White of Siler City, N.C. Mr. White holds a BFA in graphic design from the University of Georgia School of Graphic Design and studied anthropology at N.C. State University. He is a sculptor working primarily in steel, stainless steel, copper and titanium. Mr. White became a full-time sculptor in 2000 after years of experience as a residential designer and contractor. He also spent several years as a product designer, model maker and prototype builder. He has installed large-scale pieces as far away as China and Malaysia. Mr. White’s work has won numerous awards in North Carolina, Virginia and other areas of the country. He will install the sculpture on the walkway June 21 and 22.
The Public Art Program is funded by a Percent for Art Ordinance, established by the City of Roanoke as a way to fund public art in city neighborhoods and public places.
More information is available at www.roanokeva.gov/publicart.
