Our downtown and nearby areas have been beautified by the many murals and public art installations which have become typical of the Fort Wayne landscape in recent years.
This month something completely original debuted. It should be a destination for all who visit downtown.
The display 77 Steps can now be viewed in the alley between 113 and 127 W. Berry St. The title comes from how many steps to cross the alley, and it was designed by Kelty Tappy Design to feature hanging tubes which light the alley and provide a luminous backdrop to the area.
“This engaging new sculpture invites people into our downtown alley network to explore all the beautiful art our partners have worked hard to create and install,” said Mayor Tom Henry in a press release. “I’m grateful for the dedication of the DID, Art This Way, the Public Art Commission, and so many individuals who are transforming our alleyways into a destination for everyone to enjoy.”
“It is really exciting to see this project go from the initial stages of the design competition all the way to completion,” said Nathan Walz, architectural intern for Kelty Tappy Design. “It certainly wouldn’t have come together without great people and teams working in collaboration to get it done. The downtown area has seen renewed vitality in recent years, and I think this sculpture can contribute to that growth.”
Virtual Holiday Spectacular
Many of our beloved holiday traditions have been set aside because of the realities of our COVID world. But the silver lining to that viral cloud are the many virtual events taking the place of those activities that allow us to celebrate from the comfort of our homes.
The Virtual Holiday Spectacular, hosted by broadcast and performing icon Terra Brantley, will be available for free streaming on Sunday, Dec. 20, at 8 p.m. The evening features plenty of exciting entertainment including a performance by Fort Wayne sensation Addison Agen.
Although free to the public, the evening is supported by some generous donations and is a fundraiser for the Artist Relief Fund and Community Harvest Food Bank.
Some of the musicians most affected by the current situation will be featured during the Spectacular, so even as you enjoy the free entertainment, consider a donation to the Artist Relief Fund and/or Community Harvest Food Bank as a way to support those who provide so much to our community.
