SMART ALEC
METAFORM ARTS AND CULTURAL DISTRICT GATEWAY
What is it?
It is a bold statement about who we are and what we believe. Informed by the Gateway Initiative and initial work by Design Collaborative, Mayor Tom Henry has made public art, strategically placed at Fort Wayne’s Gateways a priority. We understand that quality of life as manifested through beauty, aesthetics, art, and culture leads to economic development, and further investment in the things that make our city strong and unique. Local landscape architect Alec Johnson developed the concept and recruited Jerrod Tobias and Cary Shafer to design and build an iconic mural and sculpture. Retired Planning Director, Pam Holocher championed the project through the city approval process.
Who is it?
This Gateway into the Cultural District will showcase two nationally acclaimed artists living right here in Fort Wayne - sculptor Cary Shafer and painter Jerrod Tobias.
Artists Statement
Arts culture is an expression of the people’s experience. A straightforward idea that exemplifies the present time of growth and opportunity. The Metaform Mural expresses the inner connected nature of elements through patterns of change and growth. It offers the community a rich visual experience that enhances a sense of place. These connections are critical in the development of a city and community. I want to communicate a sense of “We are all in this together”. This collaborative project is an example of that inherent synergy. This work of public art will set a new benchmark in scale, and platform. I believe that it is a simple way to shine a very bright light.
- Jerrod Tobias
Composed of the most simple of geometric shapes, Metaform Sculpture is a reflection of the individual and the community. It dances and flows in harmony with the surrounding elements. Though monumental and substantial, it appears airy and delicate before the backdrop of city and commerce. Firmly anchored at the earth, and deceiving in its simplicity, it reaches to the sky and changes from every vantage point.
– Cary Shafer