BOSTON – CBT announced the unveiling of Cascade, an original lobby art installation designed and assembled by teen artists from the local nonprofit Artists For Humanity (AFH).
The beautifully handcrafted sculpture is now a permanent piece of public art at the recently opened Park 151, a 20-story, 468-unit residential building designed by CBT and developed by DivcoWest and LCOR within Cambridge Crossing (CX). The installation is one of several commissioned pieces created by AFH youth within CX.
Titled Cascade for its multidimensional, flowing appearance, the art installation is comprised of nearly three miles of steel-ball chain, transforming a simple and utilitarian material into an organic, cloud-like structure suspended from the lobby ceiling. Playfully and delicately interacting with its surroundings and the building’s architecture, Cascade activates the building’s lobby by reflecting and refracting its ample natural light and transforming the space into an immersive gallery experience.
“Our vision for Park 151 was to create a captivating and imaginative residential experience, which Artists For Humanity has accomplished through their creation of Cascade,” said Vickie Alani, AIA, Senior Principal at CBT. “We are always looking for opportunities to incorporate art into architecture, and collaborating with these talented teen artists made the process even more rewarding. It’s an honor to display this sophisticated piece of art for the community to see and enjoy.”
Artists For Humanity’s 3D Design Studio collaborated with CBT and DivcoWest throughout the design process, from the piece’s early conception to its installation. With keen attention to detail, the project spanned three years and included a series of site visits to inform the design, making it one of AFH’s longer-term commissions. The program was established to provide young, under-resourced creatives with a path to self-sufficiency through paid employment in art and design. Introducing these artists and teens to the business community helps to enhance their future earning potential, open doors to employment, and inspire advanced education and training.
“Cascade is the result of years of collaboration and vision, and we are thrilled that Park 151 features AFH teen designers’ voice, creativity and commitment in the entrance to this new residential development,” said Lorraine Johnson, Director of Creative Services and Communications at Artists For Humanity. “This successful partnership between DivcoWest, CBT and Artists For Humanity offers a place of permanence for our teens’ beautiful artwork, exposing them to an amazing professional development experience working alongside a prominent Boston developer and an architectural and interior design firm.”
Cascade is now available for viewing in the lobby of Park 151 in Cambridge Crossing.
