Bridge of Flowers brightens Gowanus
Walk along the Union Street Bridge between Nevins and Bond Streets in Gowanus and you might notice a profusion of purple and red roses twining their way up the chain link fences on either side. Stop for a closer look and you’ll realize that they’re made of cloth. Pause longer and you’ll see brand logos on a few petals.
Welcome to the “Bridge of Flowers,” a public art installation created by Gowanus-based artist Carlton Scott Sturgill with support from Arts Gowanus and a grant from the city Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Art Program. The six-week installation is designed to be a light-hearted play on the themes of nature and manufacturing – two ideas that don’t often collide in this industrialized neighborhood.
“When I’m walking to my studio, I pass a lot of dumped fabric and industrial detritus,” said Sturgill of his inspiration. “When I lived in London, I loved going to English gardens and seeing patches of color here and there. I thought it would be interesting to see it grow into shirts.”