Wow. Look at Spineway. This isn’t just any sculpture. It’s a gateway. A stunning gateway to Woodlawn Lake Park.
Spineway is a permanent public art installation. It’s the brainchild of Marc Fornes and his studio THEVERYMANY. It’s not just beautiful. It’s a feat of engineering. Imagine 1009 aluminum shingles. Each one carefully fastened with 19429 rivets. Think about that for a moment. The precision. The dedication.
The structure itself is breathtaking. It’s 20 feet tall 63 feet wide and 26 feet deep. It’s designed like a massive segmental bridge. The arches interlock. Each one supports the others. It’s a marvel of structural engineering.
This wasn’t a quick project. A team of only five people spent five days assembling the prefabricated parts. They managed to put together this impressive structure. This intricate sculpture stands on twelve precast concrete feet. They rest on a large concrete pad.
But it’s more than just metal and concrete. The light is amazing. The light passes through the chiseled surface. This creates a unique play of color and shadow throughout the day. Twenty-two distinct yet similar colors. They blend together. They create a perception of many more colors. At night LEDs illuminate the sculpture. It creates an inviting glow.
Spineway isn’t just a pretty face. It’s a symbol. It symbolizes the connection between the park and its surrounding neighborhoods. It marks the end of the Cincinnati Avenue Corridor. It begins the Park-University Corridor. It’s a conceptual bridge. People move through it from all directions. It’s a real-life reflection of the community.
Commissioned as part of San Antonio’s 2012 Bond Public Art Plan Spineway is a testament to public art’s power. It enhances the neighborhood. It provides a unique experience for the public. It’s a stunning piece of art and engineering. A true San Antonio treasure. Take some time to appreciate its details. Marvel at its complexity. Enjoy the way it interacts with light.