A series of illuminated, abstract sculpture based on charred bourbon barrels soon will mark one of Lexington’s major gateways: Oliver Lewis Way Bridge linking the city’s burgeoning Distillery District with downtown.
Colorado-based artist Christopher Weed’s “Origins” beat out more than 100 other submissions from artist from U.S., Canada and Europe, officials with LexArts Inc. said Tuesday. Weed’s work will consist of six illuminated sculptures meant to symbolize the charring of oak barrels that are used to store and age bourbon.
“His abstracted interpretation of burning bourbon barrels is a perfect gateway into the Distillery District, and the classical element of flame is an appropriate counterpoint to the waters of Town Branch running below the Oliver Lewis Way Bridge,” said Andrea Fisher of Transylvania University, who was among the committee of artists and community leaders that made the decision.
Weed was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and graduated with an MFA from the University of Maryland. He also studied in Germany for two years. Weed has produced several pieces of public art and his work is represented in many collections.
LexArts, along with 2nd District Council Member Shevawn Akers and the LFUCG Corridors Commission, launched the call for art proposals in September 2014. About the same time, Gov. Steve Beshear announced plans to extend the Town Branch Trail, including $401,000 to connect McConnell Springs Park through the Distillery District to Oliver Lewis Way in downtown.