Today, we take our first look at one of the student-designed panels, “Squiggly,” by Vera Arno from Greene Hill School.

Says Vera: “When I was first trying to create a design, I sat down with my purple marker and paper and the idea just came to me and I started making some squiggly lines. I made it because it was simple and it was something that I thought of at the moment. I like it that it’s simple and I enjoyed creating it. I really didn’t think I would win, I was just doing it because it was fun. I’m glad that I get to share my art with the neighborhood so that everyone can see it and enjoy it. I think it’s cool that anyone who comes to the neighborhood and passes by will get to see something that I made! “

Locations for “Squiggly”: Bench is near the new Pharmacy at 355 Myrtle @ Adelphi; Guard is near DC Optics at 390 Myrtle between Clermont and Vanderbilt.

Myrtle’s tree guards are both functional and durable, and offer a ‘canvas’ that reflects local creativity. They were created with a modular design so that each set of panels can have a unique, laser-cut design, meeting the Partnership’s goal of creating more opportunities to incorporate local public art into the streetscape. The newest tree guard panels were designed by 24 local artists, who were selected through an open call for public art.

Stay tuned for more spotlights…