Metro News Release
For immediate release: April 11, 2012
Public artwork dedicated at Farragut West Metro
'Farragut Spheres' illuminates station entrance
Metro, District of Columbia and Golden Triangle BID officials joined Washington, DC-based artist Michael Enn Sirvet to dedicate his artwork, “Farragut Spheres,” at Farragut West station today (Wednesday, April 11).
The sculpture, a series of backlit, aluminum spheres mounted to the walls of the station entrance, is constructed of perforated aluminum and lit with custom frosted lens over LEDs. For “Farragut Spheres,” Sirvet found inspiration in aerial views of tree clusters found in the adjacent Farragut Park. The art installation can be found at the Farragut West Metro station entrance at 17th and I streets, NW.
“Even before I got this commission, I always viewed artwork in Metro stations as a means to turn mundane trips into journeys,” Sirvet said. “I hope my artwork will do that.”
The DC Commission and Golden Triangle BID funded the artwork, and worked with the Metro Art in Transit Program to have the sculpture installed at Farragut West.
“We are extremely pleased for the support of the District of Columbia and Golden Triangle BID for this wonderful piece of public art. It will enhance the travel experience for the 22,500 daily rail riders at Farragut West and countless others who walk or ride by our station,” said Metro General Manager and Chief Executive Officer Richard Sarles.
“Farragut West is in the heart of the Golden Triangle neighborhood and a flagship in the Metrorail system. Farragut Spheres, along with the public art project at the Farragut North station, connect the stations to the surrounding activity of the community,” said Leona Agouridis, BID Executive Director. “We are pleased to partner with the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities to donate Farragut Spheres to WMATA and the many Golden Triangle workers and visitors who use this station.”
“Farragut Spheres is what art in transit is all about—as travelers enter or exit the station, it provides an unexpected delight along the way,” said Michael McBride, Metro’s Art in Transit Manager.
Metro’s Art in Transit Program installs artwork throughout the Metrorail system to enhance the travel experience of Metro customers, and works with artists, community groups, government agencies and businesses to select and install artwork that captures the spirit and vitality of the region.
News release issued at 3:58 pm, April 11, 2012.