ArtsUnion Lightscapes

LIGHT CYCLE: A PROJECT FOR UNION SQUARE
Sarah Carrier/Jerome Chou/Justin Scherma/Gena Wirth

PROPOSAL 2006

As part of the Somerville Arts Council and ArtsUnion’s lighting initiative, we propose a display that will both attract of visitors and give them a reason to linger: a celebration of the uniqueness of the area’s uniqueness. We have used our background in landscape architecture to create a unique, compelling, and responsible vision for Union Square. The proposal will require a minimal investment in terms of maintenance; it is mostly made of materials already engineered for road use, making for consistent appearance and function through tough weather conditions. While most impressive at nighttime, it will remain attractive and visible in daylight.
We see the central Union Square area encircled by illuminated material. Reflective tape is applied to building walls and street fixtures, capturing the variety of light sources distributed throughout the area—fixed (streetlights, signage) and moving (headlights). The material is used in various arrangements, accumulating and changing to highlight points of interest. It is easy to attach and easy to remove, leaving no traces.
The scheme should appeal to local residents and visitors alike. The driver will be impressed at a glance, yet not too distracted; the pedestrian can enjoy the many variations in color and shade, following the material to explore. The ring also brings to mind the rich tradition of seasonal lighting displays in Somerville.

ArtsUnion Lightscapes finished work 2007

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