Shared Vision

Lanterns, popular festival decorations associated with gaiety & rejoicing, remind us of the security of a light in the window. The lanterns of “Shared Vision” at the Holgate Light Rail Station represent prosperity as the richness of positive social interaction and communication – the essence of neighborhood. Embracing family, home & community, this sculpture supports the revitalization of an area previously identified by low income, high crime, indifference and division. The culturally referenced lanterns “light the way,” emphasizing a sense of well-being & celebrating many voices being heard.

The timeless universal symbols, cultural motifs & shapes of these lanterns identify the diverse groups that make up our global family. Inspired by traditional designs from Asian, Russian, European, Latin American, African, Moroccan and Native American cultures, “Shared Vision” stimulates both personal & communal memory, capturing past & present cultures & mirroring them back to their communities.

Light is defined as something that makes vision possible. According to Chinese folklore, lanterns were used at night to help mortals see the deities & bring light into the world. Using light as a metaphor for expanded awareness, the lanterns reflect public knowledge, insight & joy.

This free standing stainless steel sculpture is comprised of five “arms” bolted to each facet of a pentagonal pole. Radiating out in an ascending spiral, each arm holds one, uniquely shaped, laser cut lantern. Each lantern is powder coated a different color inside & is lighted. Matching, powder coated  aluminum disks and mirror finish stainless steel disks are attached to the exterior of each lantern. Lanterns from bottom up: “Festival”, “Tribal”, “Happiness”, “Offering” and “Casa”.

Topped by a red flame representing wisdom & light, the silver forms sparkle in the daylight & glow like a rainbow of hope at night. In a breeze or as a viewer changes position, the mirrored disks flash light drawing the attention of the passersby back to the sculpture again & again.