(All images by James Simon (Simon Sculpture), reproduced with permission)
The mosaic park in the town of Braddock, Pittsburgh, has been transformed from a broken-down abandoned lot into a thriving urban art project. Sculptor James Simon came up with the original idea for the park, which was funded by a combination of state and donated money, to make use of the abandoned space which had become an eyesore for residents and visitors.
In the centre of the park is a beautiful mosaic pond, full of plants and fish pieced together from broken tiles and glass. Local youths from the Braddock Youth Project were responsible for putting the majority of the installation together, over the period of around a month.
“The project gave these young adults an opportunity to contribute to an art project that will have a long lasting positive visual impact on their community,” said James Simon.
The mosaics were inspired by art from all over the world, from Western examples to indigenous pieces, and the young people were encouraged to come up with their own ideas. The completed park has become a point of pride for the town of Braddock, with residents appreciative of the transformed space.
Brittany Quarles, who worked on the project, said: “I’ve lived in Braddock all my life, and this will make it better.”
All images courtesy of James Simon and reproduced with permission. Be sure to check out his website, Simon Sculpture.
Keep reading – check out Daniel Dancer’s amazing “Art for the Sky”, the recycled art of Susan Stockwell and guerrilla gardener Pete Dungey’s amazing pothole gardens.
