On a recent walk around Portland, Ore., I discovered a small horse sculpture attached to the sidewalk. While it seemed odd (this is the city of Roses not horses after all!), I do live in a city that parades the motto, “Keep Portland Weird” on car bumpers.  

However, I’m learning that it’s not just Portland that has a penchant for random sculpture art. It’s actually the culture de jour for cities all over the country.

DDI’s home of Atlanta recently joined in on the fun with its Light Up Atlanta exhibit commissioned by C.H. Briggs, a local building products distributor. The exhibition is featured in MARTA train stations throughout the city and includes work by Atlanta-based designers who were asked to create sculptures that showcase what the city means to them.

Every piece was made with DuPont Corian, and is backlit to provide that soft glow feeling. Ah yes, even sculptures need a little mood lighting.

Artists featured:

• Kellen Minor, “Seed Bench” at Peachtree Center
• Shelly-Anne Tulia Scott, “Peeling Back the Heart” at Five Points
• Jim Ferguson, “Whirling Dervish” at Decatur
• Tae Jun Park, “Seating Bench 01” at Arts Center
• Ted Freeman, “Hot-lanta Fan” at Five Points
• IA Interior Architects, “Perspectives” at Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center
• Lisa Lin, “Life/Flame/Rising” at Lindbergh Center

So, I showed you my city and DDI showed you theirs, now it’s your turn. What random sculptures are making their way through your city? Tell us about it here!

-Heather Strang