News Summary
Charleston’s Slack Plaza will soon feature a stunning new art sculpture, ‘River Flow,’ created by artist Jonathan Cox. Scheduled for installation in April 2025, this massive piece will highlight the significance of the Kanawha River and pay homage to West Virginia’s glass manufacturing heritage. With its vibrant colors and innovative design, ‘River Flow’ is poised to become a remarkable addition to the city’s artistic landscape, supported by community funding and a commitment to public art.
Exciting New Art Sculpture Coming to Charleston!
Charleston is buzzing with excitement as news spreads about a stunning new sculpture, titled “River Flow,” set to grace Slack Plaza this coming April. The talented artist behind this captivating piece is Jonathan Cox, a renowned sculptor from Huntington and a former professor at Marshall University. Known for his ability to create striking art installations that reflect the beauty of West Virginia, Cox is ready to unveil another masterpiece that is sure to delight locals and visitors alike.
Installation Set for April 2025
The anticipation is building for the installation of “River Flow,” scheduled to begin around April 19, 2025. Depending on the weather, the installation could take anywhere from three to four days. The sculpture will highlight the historic and commercial significance of the nearby Kanawha River, which has played a vital role in the community throughout the years.
Impressive Sculpture Dimensions
If you think you’ve seen big art before, wait until you lay your eyes on this creation. “River Flow” will be a massive 43 feet long, almost 7 feet tall, and about 4 feet deep. This magnificent piece will feature three metal rings at the back adorned with 25 plates of Blenko glass, showcasing a beautiful spectrum of greens and blues. These color choices are no coincidence, as they echo the shimmering waters of the Kanawha River beautifully.
A Nod to Local Craftsmanship
One special aspect of “River Flow” is its connection to the local glass manufacturing industry. The use of glass pays homage to West Virginia’s rich history of glass production. Each glass plate has undergone an extensive polishing process to refine its shape, and they were carefully drilled with holes while submerged in water for cooling, ensuring precision without compromising quality.
Innovative Design Elements
At the heart of the sculpture’s design are long, horizontal stainless steel structures that mimic the gentle flow of water. Cox meticulously welded and shaped the steel, creating an intriguing contrast between the fluid shape of the sculpture and the sturdy materials used. To achieve a mesmerizing texture, he utilized a sander to add soft, wispy markings on the steel’s surface, enhancing the visual effect as light dances across it.
Community Support for the Arts
The project received backing from the Charleston City Council, which approved $50,000 in funding for the installation in June 2024. The Briar Hills community also rallied behind the effort, contributing an additional $14,000, with the remaining costs being comfortably covered by the city’s public arts budget. This collaborative effort illustrates how Charleston values and supports public art initiatives.
A Local Artist with Passion
Jonathan Cox has been hard at work on “River Flow” for the past seven months in his Huntington studio. Having previously exhibited at local venues, including the Clay Center, Cox’s work has always focused on public art that invites access and appreciation from every corner of the community. His love for water themes traces back to his childhood in Florida, inspiring him to reflect on the beauty and importance of rivers through this latest installation.
Get Ready for a Nighttime Spectacle
As night falls, “River Flow” will truly come to life with solar-powered lights enhancing its beauty. The back wall of Slack Plaza will be painted in a warm grey tone, creating a stunning backdrop that complements the vibrant colors of the glass plates. Residents and visitors alike will be able to experience this impressive fusion of art and nature, right in the heart of Charleston.
As the countdown begins for the arrival of “River Flow,” the excitement is palpable! Mark your calendars for April and get ready to enjoy yet another beautiful addition to Charleston’s artistic landscape. This sculpture promises to be not just a sight to see but a true reflection of the city’s history, community, and creativity.
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Additional Resources
- WVGazette-Mail
- Wikipedia: Sculpture
- Live 5 News
- Google Search: art in Charleston
- Garden & Gun
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Contemporary Art
- ABC News 4
- Google News: Charleston art installations
