





Client: MCAD, City of El Paso
Location: El Paso, TX, United States
Completion date: 2020
Artwork budget: $200,000
Project Team
Artist
Blessing Hancock
Museums and Cultural Affairs Department
City of El Paso
Overview
Narrativa is a series of intricately cut Corten Steel panels that combine natural and cultural inspirations into an iconic artwork located at the Sylvia A. Carreon Community Center in El Paso, TX. The custom artwork design consists of water jet cut panels that cast intricate shadow patterns throughout the concourse area. It is an exciting visual experience for visitors of the center, while also celebrating the unique project location. Designs are inspired by the natural environment of El Paso, the history of the area, and themes of elements of recreation that transcend time and are as important today as in previous days, especially those that remind us of the impact of healthy living, close family and neighborhood fun. Text and language used in the artwork was collected through an extensive community engagement process.
Goals
The addition of public art the new Sylvia A. Carreon Community Center is an important identity marker and Narrative defines this character. This integrated artwork establishes an eye-catching element, offers an exciting destination and directs visitors through the space. Narrative compliments the architecture to create a cohesive and iconic experience that has been loved and appreciated by the community. The artwork is a welcoming symbol for the new facility and connects to the identity and vision of the Recreation center and surrounding community. The artwork emphasizes discovery as a fundamental aspect of the recreation experience and provides a permanent canvas for the expression of community related topics, where the 'story' of the community center is told.