Arches of Harlem

Lead Designers Paul Gregory, Christine Hope, Brett Andersen, David Kinkade

Entry Description

To celebrate the vibrancy and tenacity of Harlem, we are hoping to give local artists a tremendous canvas for expression that will garner interest in art and techn in the neighborhood.
100+ years ago, the 12th Avenue Viaduct was a grand city beautification project of 25 symmetrical arches. Today, our vision is that the arches can be so much more - a perfect canvas for light art.
Most designs will be inspired by local art: modern artists like abstract digital designer Diane Smith would be featured, as well as Harlem Renaissance icons such as Archibald Motley. The Arches will also become an exciting vessel for classical art: well-known paintings like Starry Night and The Kiss inspire programming. QR codes will provide more info on each design, so the community receives not only visual enrichment but pedagogic as well.
This project is made possible by clever engineering for ease of maintenance: each Unistrut support frame braces 59 LED floodlights that can be individually programmed and will accent various parts of the viaduct in 12 layers of light. Heeding emergency vehicle clearance, these light platforms sit 14 feet off the ground, yet are still accessible for maintenance by ladder. Sidewalk-facing exterior-rated enclosures hold control gear and connections.
Our goal is to create a bright and beautiful gathering place that will boost the local economy and enrich the community.