In case you missed it, December 1 marked the anniversary of Rosa Parks’ groundbreaking act of civil disobedience.
We thought it would be a good time to share some recent photos of the new artwork at Willowbrook/Rosa Parks Station. The works, commissioned by Metro Art, were unveiled earlier this year as part of the improvements for the renovated station.
These two newest artworks pictured — Second Line by Jamex and Einar de la Torre and Gifts of Freedom and Knowledge by George Evans — are in addition to existing artworks that were restored as part of the overall station improvements.
The six parasols of “Second Line,” by Jamex and Einar de la Torre, are set at different heights, diameters and angles and add playful shadow patterns to the plaza. The work finds inspiration in processions and parades, with a nod to the many New Orleans residents who settled in South Los Angeles in the first half of the 20th Century.
Above and below, gems alongside intricate images of Rosa Parks and the Civil Rights movement are influenced by papel picado and lacemaking traditions.
The parasols provide shade to the outdoor plaza.
“Gifts of Freedom and Knowledge,” a photo mural by George Evans, is in the lobby of the Customer Center. Portraits of three community leaders who have been guardians of community through their work greet you as you come in the door.
This detail features “Sweet Alice” Harris, who founded Parents of Watts in the 1970s. The mural also depicts the stream flowing through Magic Johnson Park, the Watts Towers and other local landmarks.
The sculptural parasols take on new character and warmth to refract the waning sunlight each afternoon and evening.
Custom LED lights built into the artworks illuminate the station pathways at night with a dreamy and luminescent glow.
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Categories: Metro Art