Client: City of Minneapolis & Oaks Properties

Overview

Illuminated environmental artwork for transit-oriented development at Oaks Station Place includes ‘monument grove’ entry landmark, ‘disclights’ plaza lighting and a sculptural ‘monitor’ bathysphere. Luminous borealis-like ‘reed-stalks’ reference nearby wetlands and granaries while the sculpture pays homage the neighborhood’s namesake, inventor John Ericsson. Glowing microbes based on samples taken from nearby Minnehaha creek are viewed through sculpture’s portholes. Patinated & polished stainless steel, lighting, acrylic. 4800 sf. Commissioned by City of Minneapolis and Oaks Properties. Kaas Wilson Architects, Levi Stoll, Chris Krumm. More information may be found at www.luminousness.net

Goals

The artwork provided an illuminated landmark, plaza lighting and an interactive sculptural icon for a mixed use transit-oriented development. Working with the gothic revival architectural vernacular, we developed a cohesive suite of interrelated elements that functionally-enhanced a collaboratively-designed plaza. Our lighting solutions met all footcandle requirements while offering colorful RGB LED accent lighting that is seasonally-programmed.

Process

We worked with a lighting and exhibit designer, landscape architect, public art program administrator, community representatives and the developer to create an overall conceptual and material approach. In addition to the artwork, we provided input on hardscape, seating and landscaping design and implementation. Additionally, we did a series of community workshops with a local environmental learning school, where student research and work related to water quality served as the inspiration for sculptural microbes displayed within the iconic bathyscope.