Bright and whimsical sculptures will help welcome visitors to Allen’s newest community park.
Artists from May + Watkins Design proposed a mixture of decorative and functional artwork for the 75-acre Spirit Park, located on the southwest corner of Ridgeview Drive and Bray Central Drive. The freestanding sculptures, benches, and bicycle racks are modeled after native plants.
Allen City Council approved spending $122,743 for the colorful works during the June 27 city council meeting. The cost of fabrication and installation will be covered by public art funds.
Several artists were vetted by Allen’s Public Art Committee before designs were chosen.
“We spent a long time consulting with the artist, and the designs have gone through quite a bit of evolution,” said Steve Benson, chair of the Public Art Committee. “Our intent was to have bright colors and reflect the horticulture that’s native to this area.”
Allen’s Public Art Committee helps guide the selection of public art projects in the city. Its latest completed project is Gone Swimmin’, a collection of mosaic columns at the newly-renovated Ford Pool. The committee is also working with Allen Parks & Recreation staff to create mobile map of the city’s public art collection.
A list of current works is available at CityofAllen.org/PublicArt.
