Issue link: https://townofcary.uberflip.com/i/320439
Chapter 5 ! Cary Public Art Opportunities 35 Priority Places for Public Art in D owntown Cary Academy Street Academy Street is the main street of downtown Cary, with the significance of the Town Hall at the north end, and the Arts Center as a visual culmination to the south . Public art along Academy Street should provide visual interest for both pedestrians and drivers. A series of works by one artist, or following a particular theme or concept would bolster the town's boulevard concept and define Academy Street as the center of the cultural arts district. The theme of the serial art could be based upon the his tory of Cary; water resources and management, cultural diversity; and the arts in Cary. In addition, there are opportunities for public art to be incorporated in benches and other streetscape elements ; wayfinding maps and kiosks, and a future vest pocket park - an idea generated during the public art workshops. Train Station The Amtrak Train Station and the "bus shelter" along the tracks near Harrison Street provide public art opportunities to relate to the history of Cary, while serving to welcome a nd orient visitors. An artist - designed Welcome sign to Cary could be located where the train pulls into Cary , while i nside the s tation building there might be an installation of historic artifacts and information. The entrance to the train station could additionally be accentuated by public art in order to direct passengers into the downtow n district. The "bus shelter" closest to Harrison Street is a great opportunity to provide a unique shelter that serves as protection, but also is a special experience , and visually notable from Harrison Street. The "Cary Theatre" Block The area around the renovated Cary Theat re should be inviting and encourage visitors and citizens alike to stay in town and enjoy local events, activities, and shops. Opportunities i nclude strategic locations for both planned and impromptu performances, such as music, readings, and story telling. Paving and/ or "downtown" lighting designed by an artist may be part of creating a sense of place. Ceremonial Space Programmed events such as Cross Currents, Monumental Fire Sculpture project , Lazy Daze, Dreamfest, and Wheels on Academy , bring creative vitality and excitement. Special events reframe the gathering places at the centers of town , activating the public realm . Public art projects should be located to attract people to gathering places where events are held, and should coincid e with existing Town traditions and events. By convey ing the significance of these civic places, public art can create meaningful landscapes that will contribute to memorable experience s . The public park and bank plaza are examples of existing or potential gathering places. Public art should be included in other sites where activities are programmed, such as farmers markets, arts festivals and parades. The Ceremonial Space diagram, at right, identifies the location of existing or potential ceremo nial sp aces , and how they are interconnected.