Metro Light Rail: The Roosevelt Arts District

The Metro Light Rail stations are more then simple platforms for getting on and off, they also feature prominent art.

Public art plays an important role in any city if it's done well and the collaboration of architects, engineers, artist worked out well to integrate works into the light rail system providing both visual pleasure and also history, photos and meaning, putting it all in perspective and allowing travelers to get a glimpse into what Phoenix was and is.

The Roosevelt / Central Ave. station is one of the larger stations.  It provides access to the residents of the surrounding area including the Roosevelt Historic District and Portland Place amongst others.  It is also a drop of point for those seeking the downtown urban vibe of First and Third Fridays and the very wonderful and eclectic Roosevelt Row with it's many local businesses.

The Art

"The triangular plaza created between the north and south station platforms at the Roosevelt station is unique on the light rail alignment. The traction power sub-station was especially designed to support this plaza and the intricately laid pavers and sprinkle of trees makes this an engaging spot. San Francisco artist Peter Richards contributes an inviting, visually provocative focal point in the shade of his artwork.

The sculpture is sensitive to its surroundings and, most importantly, creates a place where people will want to gather and linger.The large, two-layered, kinetic shade trellis includes perforated metal panels whose relative positions generate complex geometric shadows onto the ground below.

These patterns shift and change with the movement of the freely suspended upper canopy positioned above the stationary lower canopy.Looking up, the viewer sees a moiré effect as the patterns move around. Seating is located at the base of the trunk, inviting you to take a moment to relax under dappled sunlight." (Metro Art Book)