Mariposa Plaza Revitalization Project – A National Endowment of Arts ‘Our Town’ Project

Fresno, CA

Urban Diversity Design was an original partner with the City of Fresno, Fresno Art Museum, and Fresno Arts Council to apply for the National Endowment of Arts “Our Town” grant for reactivation of Mariposa Plaza in downtown Fresno.  NEA recognized Fresno’s rich art heritage with the grant for creative place making at the plaza.  Mariposa Plaza is the most active public space in downtown Fresno. Multiple events are staged throughout the year attracting large crowds. Its location at the corner of Mariposa and Fulton Street positions it on axis with the governmental heart of Fresno and the County as well as immediate proximity to the planned high speed rail station. The renovation of the plaza and incorporation of a major public art component was envisioned as part of the greater revitalization of downtown. The plaza is a key factor in a series of catalyst projects including Fulton Street, the high-speed rail station, Van Ness bus rapid transit, and numerous private building renovations.  A national call for an artist brought several proposals from nationally renowned artists to design and build an interactive art piece.  City of Fresno with the help of Fresno Arts Council chose Gordon Huether from Napa, California to install three sculptures in the plaza.

 

Type:  Urban Design
Location: Fresno, California
Client: City of Fresno / NEA Our Town Grant
UDD Role: Grant Writing Assistance, Urban Design / Community Engagement and Outreach

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01EK8Uel9Ok