Will it be a sculpture, structure, or installation based on light, sound, or water? One thing is certain about the new art project set for Point State Park: it will be distinctive.
With the park set to re-open next fall, a new project is underway to further enhance the rivers' confluence downtown.
The Colcom Foundation recently made a grant to the Pennsylvania Environmental Council for an innovative art project to mark the reopening.
The art will find a permanent home in the Portal Bridge area, between the Fort Pitt and Fort Duquesne bridges.
South Side-based architectural firm SPRINGBOARD Design is soliciting proposals from 30 design firms nationwide. Soon the firm will narrow the search to five propositions. The public can weigh in on the proposals in a soon-to-be developed website.
According to John Rohe, Colcom's vice president of philanthropy, the project builds upon the area's historical significance.
"There has been an interpretative plan created over many years for this particular piece of geography. All of the designs will pertain to that interpretative plan, meaning respect for the history, the water, and for this prominent place in our history," Rohe says.
Regionally, the Pittsburgh-based foundation supports conservation, environmental projects and cultural assets.
Colcom's newest funded project will complement the completed renovations to the Point, which began in 2007.
Point State Park has long held an attraction to tourists and Pittsburghers alike. The newly renovated park, complete with refurbished fountain and soon-to-be determined art project, is sure to attract more fans.
Writer: Lindsay Derda, Pop City intern
Source: John Rohe, Colcom Foundation