The Verdant Walk is a response to Cleveland’s industrial past and new green agenda. Evolving from a powerhouse of the industrial era, Cleveland is moving forward with sustainable development, to step thoughtfully into the next era. Recalling the city’s steel industry, the forms represent new technologies, with solar powered lights. Strips of grasses, alluding to moving water and cargo ships, celebrate the inseparability of Cleveland to the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie. The forms and grass strips transform the lawn to be enjoyed by an individual or a city celebration. Capturing seasonal change, the installation responds with textures, transparency and long winter shadows. Gathered in a heard, like futurist beasts and glowing with excitement, the forms of Verdant Walk invite visitors to join them as they lead the way to a prosperous future.

The project, by Pete and Alissa North of North Design Office, is sponsored by Cleveland Public Art, and is on display in downtown Cleveland’s Mall B, through to 2010. An official opening will take place in September, when the native grasses have established.

For more information please visit the North Design Office website: http://www.northdesignoffice.ca

For more information about the Cleveland Public Art project please visit: www.clevelandpublicart.org