This is the fourth in a series of posts highlighting specific tree guard designs on Myrtle Avenue.

MARP’s very own Daniel Scorse designed the “The Itsy Bitsy Spider” panel. The name was a nod to his 18-month old son, Ari, who enjoys the classic children’s song. But the design itself originated from his feelings about the first round of tree guard panels. Daniel is responsible for installing and maintaining the guards and benches, as well as planting ornamentals. “I like the negative spaces, the open spaces, in the tree guards,” says Scorse. “Additionally, I didn’t want an abstract design. So I began to think about real objects that have a lot of open space, like webs. Putting the spider in the center was a design challenge for me, but it’s a fun touch.”

Locations for “The Itsy Bitsy Spider”: Bench near Red Lantern Bicycles, 345 Myrtle between Carlton and Adelphi; Guard near Trilok’s lot, Myrtle @ Waverly.

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…