January 16, 2008

A Charlottesville park has a pretty unique and new addition. The Booker T. Washington Park just installed two new bike racks, however they aren't the traditional racks most people are used to.

“Tree cyclists waiting for bicycles”--That's the theme of some new artwork at Washington Park.

The City of Charlottesville teamed up with Art-In-Place to put a new spin on an old concept.
They gave local artists up to a thousand dollars to create this functional and very unique artwork.

“It's neat how this program has gotten people talking about art whether they care for it or don't. A lot of people are talking about it, said Chris Gensic, Trails Planner for Charlottesville parks.

Both sculptures are made with recycled materials like glass bottles and metal.
If you look closely you can even see the nutrition labels on the glass that makes up the face.

The city is hoping these new pieces of art will bring people out.

“We particularly hope that putting them where children will be and we hope to make it more fun for areas like parks and schools and libraries, said Gensic.

Artwork for three other locations is expected to be completed by the end of spring.

Just in case you were wondering how people will know what this artwork really is, the city will hang signs stating the sculpture's purpose.