Public Art Designs on Display for Sculptural Wall and Campus Entry Sculpture City of Bend Public Works Campus

The City of Bend is set to unveil two new public art designs for a Sculptural Wall and Campus Entry Sculpture at the Public Works Campus, with community input being sought from August 30 to September 10, 2024. In partnership with Art in Public Places, the city postponed the public display earlier due to concerns regarding a design's resemblance to the U. S. -Mexico border wall. Artists Patrick Marold and Aaron T.

Stephan have since revised their concepts, which will be showcased at the Larkspur Community Center and downtown Bend Deschutes Public Library. The proposed Sculptural Wall will stretch 250 feet along Cooley Road, serving both as an artistic feature and a screening for public works equipment. Meanwhile, the Campus Entry Sculpture will welcome visitors at the main entrance near a monument sign. The designs are intended to integrate abstract concepts related to public works and the natural environment of Central Oregon. Community members of all ages are encouraged to participate in the input process, emphasizing a collaborative approach to public art.

The finalized sculptures are expected to enrich Bend's public art collection and be completed by winter 2025.