Behind-the-Scenes: Coordinating the Art Along the Wonderfront
A behind-the-scenes journey through the Art and Design Committee's planning meetings for the Tidelands Art Collection, focusing on how ideas evolve into actionable plans that drive community engagement. The first subject being the "Rigors of Flight" art piece made by Roberto Salas.
Whether your time in San Diego is spent enjoying sunny weather, water activities, or notable dining experiences, immersing yourself in the exceptional artwork that the Wonderfront has to offer is a must-do! The Port’s Tidelands Collection features many treasures that tell a story and create a visually stunning atmosphere for locals and visitors to enjoy. Sculptures, statues, mosaics, murals, and other public artworks enhance the natural beauty of the Wonderfront, while paying homage to the rich, cultural history of the city.
The coordination behind these artworks involves community engagement and creative freedom, which are the pinnacle of the Art and Design Committee’s mission. Here is an insider look at the collection’s most recent installment: “Rigors of Flight.”
Art that Fosters Community: Rigors of Flight
Located in the heart of Sweetwater Park, the Chula Vista Bayfront’s newest development, “Rigors of Flight” has become the focal point of this innovative destination. This artwork was created by Roberto Salas, an artist local to San Diego that pulls creative inspiration from his surroundings. Throughout the creative process of this artwork, local communities were kept engaged through Sweetwater Park workshops, art community meetings, and a ‘Meet-the-Artist’ event, where the public was introduced to the commissioned artist, Salas. Transparency and community outreach/engagement have been at the forefront of this project, and these initiatives openly reflect that commitment.
Harnessing the Beauty of the Wonderfront
The sculpture itself is made from warm-toned aluminum and resembles a furcula— or a ‘wishbone.’ It embodies modern architecture yet perfectly complements the natural landscape of Sweetwater Park. When asked about the design initiative for this piece, Salas described his local observations and how they influenced his vision for the artwork. “I walked around the port. I laid on the ground. I listened… I smelled the air. I looked at the sky. I saw the birds, their wings,” said Salas. “Then I asked what is the most important part of the bird? The furcula. The furcula is the wishbone.” Today, “Rigors of Flight” stands as a beacon of creativity and community, creating the perfect visual experience for the public to appreciate.
Visit Sweetwater Park and Enjoy "Rigors of Flight"
When visiting the Wonderfront, stopping by Sweetwater Park on the Chula Vista Bayfront is sure to be worth your while! Come appreciate “Rigors of Flight” for a first-hand experience of the remarkable creativity that local artists have to offer, and a greater feeling of community that this sculpture symbolizes.
Click here for more information on Sweetwater Park
