Art everywhere
Final unveiling of Hemisfair's massive public art project designed to delight
Over the past few years, Hemisfair has been the site of a massive, city-led transformation. Beginning in 2009 when the San Antonio City Council approved the creation of the Hemisfair Park Area Redevelopment Corporation, the recreation hub has undergone multiple improvement projects, all with the goal of turning the spot into a gathering place for community and celebration.
Part of that transformation has been a series of eight public artwork installations curated by San Antonio-based artist Stuart Allen. Since 2015, the city's Public Art San Antonio has commissioned eight pieces which together form “Play” at Yanaguana Garden. On March 2, Reflect, the eighth and final piece of the art project, will be unveiled in a public ceremony.
Composed of stainless steel "ribbons," the canopy-like Reflect is designed to "reflect and refract the surrounding landscape, buildings and, most importantly, the children and adults utilizing the playground," according to a release. The result is a fun house mirror-esque effect designed to engage and delight park patrons.
"Its size and design sparks creativity and ramps up the fun for the children who play here, and the visual aspects engage everyone’s imagination," said Debbie Racca-Sittre, director of San Antonio's Department of Arts & Culture, in a release. "With this new sculpture to complete the series, visitors to Yanaguana Garden can experience the playfulness of art."
San Antonians can experience that playfulness in person beginning March 2. The official unveiling — which is free and open to the public — will begin at 4 pm in the Yanaguana Garden. The event will feature remarks from the artist and city officials, as well as refreshments from Palateria San Antonio.
