Nellie Rose Davis and Nathan Baker have been commissioned to design and install two public art projects in the City of Thomas later this summer.
This project to commission public art in Thomas is coordinated by volunteers with New Historic Thomas, a non-profit community group dedicated to revitalizing the city of Thomas by preserving its history, cultural heritage, and resources that make the city unique.
Volunteers created and circulated a request for proposals after committee meetings were held to determine the scale and vision for the project. At the close of the application period, the proposals were reviewed by a review panel comprised of local and regional representatives. Davis’ and Baker’s design proposals were chosen unanimously by the review committee for commission.
The designs and the two artists were officially unveiled at ArtSpring’s Silent Auction Closing, Sunday, May 28 at 6:30 p.m. in the Cottrill’s Opera House. These public art projects will be installed later this summer.
Davis’ proposal is to paint the side of a shed along Spruce St. after one of her original textile designs.
On her design, Davis says, “It would be bright, colorful, and a curious sight. It would fix up an otherwise boring shed and turn it into a landmark indicating that there are interesting businesses below.”
Baker, who has titled his piece “Moonpool,” is an arched pavilion-like structure that facilitates reflection and supports growth; “Moonpool” will be constructed out of reinforced concrete, a large convex mirror, and a Wisteria vine.
Baker says, “The arches in ‘Moonpool’ are a typical use of the form and also an intentional reference to the arched windows of the historic Cottrill’s Opera House.”
If you have any questions about the process or the public art pieces, please contact New Historic Thomas at mail@newhistoricthomas.com
