Client: Center for Urban Ecology, Butler University

Overview

StreamLines (Mary Miss, City As Living Laboratory) is an arts and science learning project installed in five communities located along major tributaries to the White River in Indianapolis, Indiana. Each site includes a mirror, concrete pedestal, red beams, and black 3D words all composed within and around a gravel circle. Additional signposts provide text and imagery, including poetry, scientific and historical facts, jokes, prompts, and more. Viewers can further learn and engage with the project through an app and website that serves as an archive of associated programming.

Goals

StreamLines was created with the goal of engaging Indianapolis communities in a playful exploration of their city's waterways. Five installations located in five communities along tributaries of the White River invite viewers to step into the artwork, explore their physical surroundings, and reflect on the role of water and waterways in their daily lives. The project included public programs such as original music performance, choreographed dance, and poetry readings, all of which served to reach out to residents and encourage engagement with the themes of the project and foster community connections.

Process

Ignition Arts Fabrication Scope: Project management, design development, engineering, fabrication (stainless steel, aluminum, laser printing), paint finish, installation