“Wings to Dreams” Erie Captures Nature’s Beauty Through Public Art

“Wings to Dreams” — a new public art piece created by artist Dixie Friend-Gay — is now installed in Erie, serving as a captivating artistic representation of the town’s natural beauty. Situated between the Erie Community Library and Erie Community Center, 450 Powers St., north of Erie Parkway, the installation is the first one to ever be commissioned by the Erie Art Program (created by Erie Arts and Culture). After the Program was launched in March 2022, the group selected Friend-Gay to be the first artist to design artwork for the town.

Embracing nature’s beauty through artistic steel pillars

The art piece comprises three stainless steel pillars, each a visual ode to the intricate beauty of the natural local surroundings. One pillar features moose antlers, which, from some angles, also look like wings — making a playful reference to the installation’s name. Eagles, bighorn sheep, and owls also feature on the other pillars, while one also displays thirteen moons, signifying the thirteen annual lunar cycles. LED lights also create a vibrant, multi-colored effect. “I just try to bring all the nature of our natural world into the work,” Friend-Gay said at the installation in November. Friend-Gay also said she prefers not to dictate interpretations to her viewers, allowing them the freedom to form their own thoughts and perspectives about the artwork.

Notably, some of the pillars are also made of textured stainless steel, adding depth and tactile interest to the overall composition. So, when the LED lights light up the steel, the installation suddenly becomes a vibrant kaleidoscope of color. Friend-Gay also noted the importance of the installation’s longevity and resilience in the face of the sometimes extreme Colorado weather. Stainless steel was therefore an obvious choice for the piece. This hardy metal is resistant to corrosion, tarnishing, and extreme temperatures, making it ideal for the demands of outdoor installations and guaranteeing a lasting visual impact. In addition to being practical, stainless steel is also aesthetically-pleasing, and popular for its sleek and modern appearance. It’s polished and sophisticated finish complements diverse artistic styles.

Outsider’s artistic dedication to authenticity

Friend-Gay isn’t a local — as her home state is, in fact, Oklahoma — and she’s therefore aware some people weren’t too keen on entrusting the creation of an artwork meant to represent the local area to someone who is not from the community. But, rest assured, Friend-Gay went above and beyond in making certain her piece was an authentic representation of both Erie and Colorado. Comprehensive research, in particular, became a priority for the talented artist as she began her artistic process. Notably, Friend-Gay made multiple visits to a local Audubon Society (a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to bird and habitat conservation) to learn about local birds, and she also spoke with a botanical specialist to learn all about the plant life native to the area.

Fostering community connections: public art’s impact on culture and diversity

“Art elevates the town’s culture and diversity”, commented Jarod Ballentine, a communications specialist for Erie, at the installation of the artwork in November. According to Ballentine, “public art gives residents a place to go, gather together, communicate and voice their opinions”, therefore fostering community connections. And, since Friend-Gay was present at the installation, locals also had the opportunity to get insights about the art directly from the creator — something which isn’t always possible with public art installations. “It (the artwork) speaks to how the town is not only growing, but also embracing the diversity,” said Ballentine. One member of the audience said she’s a big local art fan, and is looking forward to seeing more installations debut in Erie — and, she’s surely not alone in this sentiment.

Friend-Gay didn’t achieve this impressive feat alone; she teamed up with local metal fabricator, Juno Works, to create the stunning installation. Friend-Gay also said she’s honored to be the Erie Art Program’s first commissioned artist, and is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the town’s cultural landscape and inspire the community through her creative vision. Find out more about Friend-Gay and her work at her website dixiefriendgay.com.