|
 |
The planned reflecting pool and footbridge.
|
Joslyn Partnership to Enhance Public Art, Public Space
The last time Omaha had a grand plaza and reflecting pool was during the Trans-Mississippi Exposition in 1898. One of the reflections Omahans contemplated in those waters was the Apiary designed by Omaha architect John McDonald.
Now, over a century later, another McDonald building - the Joslyn Art Museum - will be reflected in new waters.
A reflecting pool is part of a $10 million campus redevelopment plan resulting from a strategic partnership among Joslyn, Creighton University and the Omaha Public Schools. The focal point of the project will be a sculpture garden between the museum and Central High School where visitors will experience three generations of architecture. In addition to the Art Deco of McDonald’s Joslyn, the new public space will highlight the Beaux Arts façade of Omaha architect John Latenser’s Central High and Sir Norman Foster’s post modern addition to the museum.
 |
The reflecting pool looking toward Central High School.
|
Besides the architecture, the plan calls for plenty of art. There will be two garden galleries, each with its own unique sculpture. The Pavilion Garden to the north will be divided into smaller gallery spaces while the southern Memorial Garden, in front of the museum’s grand staircase, will provide open, shaded seating space for large outdoor events and concerts.
In addition to the reflecting pool with footbridge, a falling water wall 150 feet in length will provide a calming sound to buffer noise from the surrounding urban environment. The plan calls for granite paths and grassy surfaces, trees, shrubs and special grasses that will set the stage for the placement of important pieces of sculpture from Joslyn’s collection.
Work on Phase One began April 2. The current Dodge Street entrance drive is closed during construction, and visitors should use the 24th Street entrance until the end of June.
“The new campus will be a great addition to public art and public space in Omaha - honoring local history, heritage and great art and architecture from around the world,” said Connie Spellman, director of Omaha by Design.
To find out more about public art in Omaha, click here.
To read more about Omaha’s architectural heritage, click here.
|
|
|
