Conceptual mockups of the sculptures proposed by artist Dimitar Lukanov for the Mohawk Valley Gateway Overlook pedestrian bridge were on display at a special meeting of the Common Council held today. Members agreed unanimously to approve a contract between the city and the artist to complete the structures. The decision comes after a selection committee recently recommended Lukanov’s proposal.
The first sculpture, Mother and Child at the Mohawk River, is expected to be delivered by December 2017, and depicts a mother, child, and various animals common to the Mohawk Valley. It will be a bronze composition and will be located near the south entrance to the bridge. It will stand approximately 9 feet high once mounted onto a pedestal which will be constructed by the city’s department of public works.
The second sculpture, DreamRiver, is expected to be delivered by July 2018 and will stand approximately 20 feet tall. The abstract design will be made of stainless steel and appear near the north entrance to the bridge. The sculpture will feature a blue and white color scheme.
The third piece, Waterfall Gate, will be a functional steel or aluminum gate for the south entrance of the bridge and is expected to be delivered by July 2018.
The contract calls for five payments to the artist of $80,000 between August 2017 and August 2018.
The art pieces, as well a bathroom and visitor center on bridge street, will be funded by a grant awarded to the city in 2015.
Lukanov has agreed to utilize local contractors to complete the work as well as host a series of workshops with area schools.
