Downtown Knoxville is currently witnessing the transformation of the Cradle of Country Music Park, a project valued at $1.2 million. This triangular 0.58-acre park located at the intersection of Gay Street and Summit Hill Drive has been underutilized in recent years, and is now undergoing renovations to become a vibrant public space.
This week, the installation of a large public art piece began, featuring a whimsical curved metal canopy atop a concrete pier. The installation process, which includes the use of scissor lifts for precision placement, is expected to continue through late fall, with the park reopening upon completion.
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The project aims to transform the park into an inviting area that can host small concerts and music events, in homage to Knoxville’s contributions to country music. R.J. Justice, the Chief of Urban Design and Development, expressed excitement about the project, highlighting its potential to create an engaging space at a key downtown intersection.
The art installation was designed by THEVERYMANY, a New York-based studio led by artist Marc Fornes, and was selected from 129 global applicants by Knoxville’s Public Arts Committee. The project involved collaboration with Surface 678 and Hedstrom Design, with support from various local entities including the Knoxville Public Arts Committee, Urban Forestry and Horticulture divisions, the state of Tennessee, Visit Knoxville, and the Downtown Knoxville Alliance. Blount Contractors Inc. is handling the construction.
A focus on preserving and enhancing the park’s greenery is evident, with 12 mature trees retained and nine new trees slated for planting this fall, ensuring the park’s canopy is lush and inviting.
For safety, a new sidewalk has been constructed for pedestrian access along the eastern side of the park, while the Gay Street sidewalk remains closed with detour signs in place.
Further details and visual renderings of the park’s transformation can be accessed at www.KnoxvilleTN.gov/CradleCountryMusic.
Source: Read Original Release
Knoxville Seeks Artists for Community Center Mural
The City of Knoxville‘s Public Arts Committee is inviting artists to submit qualifications for a mural at the Cal Johnson Community Center. The mural will be displayed in the gymnasium and should be lively, colorful, and inspiring. The project has a budget of $25,000, with a focus on local artists. The deadline for submissions is November 15, 2024, and more details can be found on the KnoxAlliance website.