The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) public art program Artbound, along with experimental art company Dashboard, announce a large-scale lighting artwork at the Grant Street Tunnel in Atlanta. The tunnel transformation is part of MARTA’s transit-oriented development (TOD) at nearby King Memorial rail station on the East/West Line.
“We’re excited to expand our public art program Artbound from our rail stations to the surrounding communities. Our hope is that Reflection Tunnel will be an inspiring and unique experience for our customers and all who use this route,” said MARTA Artbound Director Katherine Dirga.
The 20,000-piece art activation by artist Adam Bostic will transform the interior of the tunnel using safety reflectors and provide a safe space for pedestrians. The project will also incorporate an interactive series of oral histories reflecting on the past and present of the surrounding neighborhoods, showcased along the 300-foot sidewalk. Co-founder of preservation non-profit Historic Atlanta Scott Morris will collect, preserve, and highlight stories from neighbors, business owners, community leaders, and others connected to the area.
The Grant Street Tunnel transformation is part of MARTA’s transit-oriented development (TOD) at King Memorial Station which serves as a bustling hub for Georgia State students and downtown residents and is a key connector to historic sites such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s childhood home and Oakland Cemetery. The area has experienced substantial growth, both residential and commercial in recent years, and station enhancements will provide a welcoming, publicly accessible space for this growing number of people to safely enjoy downtown and to take in the rich cultural scene.
MARTA and Dashboard will host a community event to celebrate the project on Friday, July 23 from noon until 2 p.m. More details will be shared as we get closer to the date.
To learn more about those involved:
MARTA Artbound – MARTA (itsmarta.com)
Dashboard – Art Company – www.dashboard.us
Adam Bostic – Owner of Arc Design – www.arcdesign.space
Scott Morris – Co-Founder of Historic Atlanta – ABOUT – Historic Atlanta
For more information about the activation – courtney@dashboard.us