What Is the Urban Core Art Project's New 'Assembly' Unveiling?

Since 2012, the Urban Core Art Project in Tulsa has transformed the downtown area with temporary public art installations that showcase local creativity and community engagement. The latest installation, “Assembly,” features 21 sculptures and three benches, all crafted from recycled materials, and will be on display from 25 September 2023 until 25 September 2026.

Last updated: 21 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The “Assembly” installation opens on 25 September 2023 and will be available until 2026.
• Created by Richard Zimmerman, the installation comprises 21 sculptures made from discarded materials.
• The project connects the local community and environment through art, using found objects to create organic shapes.
• This is the fifth project by the Urban Core Art Project, which started in 2015.
• Funding for the project comes from various private donors and foundations.

About the Urban Core Art Project

The Urban Core Art Project (UCAP) aims to enhance the cultural landscape of Tulsa through innovative public art. Founded in 2012, it has become a pivotal platform for local artists, fostering community interaction and engagement. The project has seen a variety of installations that reflect the spirit of the city.

The New Installation: "Assembly"

“Assembly” is a significant addition to the UCAP, designed by Richard Zimmerman, an artist known for his interdisciplinary approach. This installation features sculptures crafted from thousands of recycled plastic and metal items collected from the Tulsa area. The use of such materials not only highlights the importance of recycling but also connects the artwork to the local environment.

Each sculpture is wrapped in a specific type of fiberglass cast tape, traditionally used for medical purposes, which gives the pieces a unique texture and aesthetic. The organic shapes of the sculptures evoke natural elements, such as plants and shrubs, blending art with nature.

Richard Zimmerman's Artistic Journey

Richard Zimmerman has been a prominent figure in the Tulsa art scene since arriving as a Tulsa Artist Fellowship alum in 2019. His diverse background includes a Master of Fine Arts degree from Cornell University and a Bachelor’s in Painting from Pratt Institute. His work has been showcased in notable venues, including Miami Art Basel and various contemporary art galleries. Post-fellowship, Zimmerman chose to continue living and working in Tulsa, further enriching the local art community.

Historical Context of UCAP Installations

The Urban Core Art Project has delivered a series of impactful installations over the years. The inaugural project, “Tulsa Patterns (Firefly Reference)” by James Woodfill, introduced an interactive light display that captivated both residents and visitors. Following this, the “Trace” installation by Grace Grothaus Grimm and Geoffrey Hicks featured a solar-powered light display, showcasing the potential of art to engage with the environment sustainably.

Other noteworthy projects include Patrick Dougherty’s “Prairie Schooners,” a stunning display of sapling sculptures, and Rachel Hayes' “Reflection Mode,” which transformed a disused building into a vibrant art space. Each installation has contributed to the ongoing dialogue about art’s role in public spaces, urban development, and community identity.

Community Engagement and Impact

UCAP’s installations are more than just visual spectacles; they serve to engage the community in meaningful dialogue about art, environment, and sustainability. By integrating local materials and themes, these projects resonate with the public and encourage a collective appreciation for both art and nature.

“Assembly” will feature not only the sculptures but also new pedestrian paths, enhancing the Plaza of the Americas’ accessibility and appeal. The inclusion of wooden benches provides a space for reflection and interaction, inviting visitors to linger and engage with the art and each other.

Funding and Support

The success of the Urban Core Art Project relies heavily on the support of private donors and foundations. Significant contributions have come from the Mervin Bovaird Foundation, the Gerald H. Westby Jr. Foundation, and the Ruskin Art Club, among others. This funding is crucial for the continuation of the project's mission to bring art to the public and sustain future installations.

Looking Ahead

As “Assembly” opens to the public, it sets a benchmark for future art projects in Tulsa. The potential for continued community involvement and environmental dialogue through public art remains strong. Each new installation serves as an opportunity for artists to explore innovative concepts while fostering a deeper connection between art and the urban landscape.

Conclusion

The Urban Core Art Project exemplifies the power of public art to inspire and unite communities. With “Assembly,” Richard Zimmerman invites us to reconsider our relationship with discarded materials and the environment. This installation is not merely a collection of sculptures; it is a call to recognise the beauty in reuse and the importance of sustainability.

As we look to the future, one must ponder: how can art continue to shape our understanding of urban spaces and our responsibility towards the environment? The journey of “Assembly” is just beginning, and its impact will undoubtedly resonate for years to come. #UrbanArt #TulsaArt #PublicInstallations

FAQs

What is the Urban Core Art Project?

The Urban Core Art Project is an initiative in Tulsa aimed at enhancing the downtown area through temporary public art installations that engage the community and promote local artists.

Who created the "Assembly" installation?

The "Assembly" installation was created by Richard Zimmerman, a Tulsa Artist Fellowship alum known for his interdisciplinary approach to art.

How long will "Assembly" be on display?

"Assembly" will be on display from 25 September 2023 until 25 September 2026 at the Plaza of the Americas in Tulsa.

What materials are used in the "Assembly" sculptures?

The sculptures in "Assembly" are made from thousands of discarded and recycled plastic and metal objects, showcasing the importance of sustainability in art.

What was the first project of the Urban Core Art Project?

The first project was "Tulsa Patterns (Firefly Reference)" by James Woodfill, which featured an interactive light display in downtown Tulsa.