Client

Overview

In April 2016, John Chavis Memorial Park (Raleigh, NC) was added to the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places. Capital improvements project scope includes a new two-story community center with a full-size indoor gym, elevated walking track, fitness center, and numerous classroom and meeting spaces. A renovation to the original Carousel House will allow for interior event space, and exterior bathroom access. Linking these two buildings together will be a new central plaza with an integrated water feature, and a large playground for all ages and abilities.

The centerpiece of the new community center is a 300sf art glass mural that narrates and celebrates the history of the Chavis community.

Goals

David Wilson's 300sf painted glass art will be paired with a series of colorful perforated sunshades that will line the side of the community center and reference the colors of the Carousel and window artwork. The art draws from historic photos to tell the story of the park and the surrounding community. During the day the art will bring light and color into the building and at night will act as a welcoming beacon.

Process

Wilson worked in close partnership with team member Terry Naranjo, City of Raleigh Construction Management, Raleigh Arts, and the architect project team at Clearscapes (Raleigh) at all stages of the project.