


Client: Valley Metro Light Rail
Location: Mesa, AZ, United States
Completion date: 2015
Artwork budget: $50,000
Project Team
Architect
Sean Warfield
DWL
Public Art Agent
MB Finnerty
Valley Metro Light Rail
Artist
Mary Shindell


Overview
“The Memory of a Tree is Strong,” a cut-metal screen piece, defines and enhances Morris Plaza at Morris and Main Street in Mesa, Arizona as a part of the light rail expansion. I chose the pecan tree because pecan groves were once prevalent in Mesa. As the city grew, they were incorporated into residential developments on the north and south sides of Main Street. Water jet cut steel with powder coating, 12’h x 112’w x 15’d.
Goals
Integration was of upmost importance because the goal was to create an attractive screen element that would cover the Traction Power Substation. The TPSS was located in a prominent position facing both Main Street and Morris Plaza, a small park area.
Process
This project was a collaboration between Valley Metro Light Rail, DWL Architects and several Mesa stakeholders including, adjacent businesses, neighborhoods, and the City of Mesa.
Additional Information
Fabricators: Accurate Waterjet, Precision Powdercoat