A walk around Victory Park will now start to look a bit different, as the park revealed the first piece of art in its new public art program. The steel sculpture is titled “Heavy Handed (Symbol)” and was created by California artist Nathan Mabry as part of his “Heavy Handed” series. It’s part of a Victory Park effort to create an “authentic, walkable and soulful urban neighborhood,” with more art to be announced in the coming months.
“The V-sign [see accompanying photo] is an unmistakable gesture with a common understanding that spans generations and an important, sustainable message that we are proud to spread. Its meaning has evolved throughout history, just as Victory Park is doing, making it the perfect piece to launch our public art program,” Terry Montesi, CEO, Trademark Property Co., said in a statement.
In 2013, Mabry had his own solo exhibition at the Nasher Sculpture Center. The second piece of art is slated to be installed this spring near the W Dallas-Victory and will be a sculpture by Las Vegas-based artist Tim Bavington. The mix of artists will include both local and non-local artists.
“Embracing public art and the impact it can have on a space is a major initiative in our efforts to create a more vibrant, soulful Victory Park. By bringing creative, relevant public art to the district, we hope to enhance the emotional connection with the community and make Victory Park one of Dallas’ most interesting destinations,” said Montesi.
Victory Park’s redevelopment has announced several new retail partners in recent weeks. Among them will be Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas-Victory Park, an eight-screen, 700-seat up-scale movie theater. Several local food operators—This & That Concepts, 8020 Hospitality, and Brooke Humphries—also announced plans to launch projects in the area.
