Juneau Youth Facility

The Johnson Youth Facility requested a proposal that would enhance the architecture & hide HVAC systems. This gateway screen also provides an opportunity for imagery that illustrates the diversity & dignity essential to all beings. Positive self-respect is fundamental to a productive life.  My goal is that as one approaches the Center they are instilled with a sense of pride & purpose.

The imagery on these panels represents a journey with an opportunity for personal growth, positive change & empowerment- to honor life, promote wellness, be inclusive & be fully humane.

Multi cultural quotations bring the viewer in for a closer look & stimulating reflection.

The soothing, undulating lines of this art screen carry passersby to & from the Center.  Images representing our connected family of humanity & nature also identify JYC as a Facility that offers a positive, nurturing atmosphere.

In addition to necessary detention, the Center provides guidance, rehabilitation, support & mentorship for youth as well as opportunity for positive relationships & interconnectedness within the community.

The laser cut stainless steel panels show animals & youth in individual acts of responsibility, leadership & cooperation- extending a helping hand, teaching survival, communication & social skills, developing close bonds through play & contributing to their “society” & the survival of their species. 

Two under layers of powder coated, perforated metal add texture to this installation, subtly obscuring the machinery behind & lessening the temptation to climb by eliminating hand & toe holds.  Celadon, the clear, refreshing color of pure water was chosen for its calming, healing qualities & it complements the grey-blue of the building while brightening it, making it feel lighter. 

Mirrored, stainless steel disks, scattered across the screen, reflect the images of the passersby.  Each person can see themselves as part of the artwork & metaphorically as part of society, part of our global community. Flashing with changes in the light & the position of the viewer, these disks will continue to catch one’s eye, drawing our attention back to the piece long after it has become a familiar sight.  Additional powder coated metal disks (indigo, magenta, mango and chartreuse), create a flow & rhythm across the panels.  At times, light will dance on the edges of the cut metal like frosting on a cake.  This phenomenon & the brightly colored disks add a cheerful element to the screen in summer or winter.