Functional public art by way of creative bike racks, a thought-provoking sculpture that reminds us of our responsibility to be engaged stewards, and inspiring murals that transform buildings into message-bearing canvases are some of the ways Rocky River is a venue for expression.
“Public art builds community; it uplifts you and makes you think,” says Mayor Pamela Bobst, highlighting numerous projects throughout the city. “It’s a source of pride and provides an outlet for local artists,” she adds, relating that even some public trash receptacles are fresco canvases.
Join us for a tour of town with this artistic snapshot of the city:
Sculpting Stewardship
A sculpture of a steelhead fish emerges from the reimagined Bradstreet’s Landing pier, the work of local public artist, sculptor and industrial designer Stephen Manka. The symbolic feature is designed to be filled with plastic bottles — a message to keep the beaches clean. Artist James Ray created the storytelling piece. “This emphasizes the importance of Lake Erie as a natural resource and our responsibility to properly dispose of waste,” says Director of Public Safety-Service Rich Snyder.
Mayor Bobst adds, “This is a special place with beautiful lake views, and the sculpture is a reminder that we need to protect it.”
Civic Creativity
Murals throughout the Rocky River Recreation Center were created with intentional themes that align with each space. Artist Stina Aleah reinvented the expansive walls with works that speak to each room’s purpose. For instance, a mind-body space features a lotus flower, and the indoor rowing room is painted with Cleveland’s skyline, rolling waves and vibrant fish. “She has brought new life to these spaces in a very meaningful way,” says Holub.
These murals add to a foundation of public art that began with a 2013 croquet-themed bike rack project triggered by a letter from then 13-year-old Eric Ulchaker, who suggested to Mayor Bobst that the city could use more bike racks. She embraced his interest and enlisted the beautification committee, “which took the idea and ran with it,” she says.
More recently, a colorful and symbolic tree of “hands” arranged as leaves honors donors to Elle’s Enchanted Forest inclusive playground. And the new Safety Town campus with whimsical winding roads and buildings that resemble Rocky River landmarks is just as much art as it is a space to teach safety lessons.
Wild Imagination
Rocky River Public Library is home to a new immersive mural, A Walk in the Park, by Evan Laisure, located in the staircase leading to the children’s area. Featuring more than 150 plant varieties and animal species native to Ohio, it is educational, entertaining and “gets your creative juices flowing,” says Jessica Breslin, library director. Spot scenes from the Metroparks, playful creatures and a landscape that “brings the outdoors in,” Breslin says. “It’s very much in line with Rocky River Public Library’s history of providing access to art in a public space.”
