Transportation Signature

Overview

The South Gateway mural screen wall, spanning a length of 180 feet, was executed for the newly established multi-modal hub of the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART). The wall is adorned with a custom script inspired by transportation history, rendering the words “Des Moines.” This undertaking was accomplished during my tenure at the RDG Dahlquist Art Studio

Details

Title: Transportation Signature
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
Client: DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit)
Completed: 2013
Size: 9ft x 18ft’ x 1ft
Medium: Stainless Steel, Perforated Steel & Lighting
Credits: RDG Dahlquist Art Studio & RDG Planning & Design

Project Narrative

The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) multi-modal hub boasts a magnificent 180-foot artistic screen mural that serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s rich transportation heritage. Founded in 1843 as a river port on the Des Moines River, Des Moines witnessed the construction of its first railroad in 1866, which contributed to its growth into a major transportation hub in the Midwest. Since 1985, DART has been providing public transportation services in the greater Des Moines area, reflecting the city’s ongoing transit evolution.

This breathtaking mural pays tribute to this history, with the name “Des Moines” crafted in a unique script that honors the era of horse-drawn carts that preceded the arrival of the railroad. At night, the mural comes to life with radiant lighting, creating a dazzling and vibrant spectacle visible from afar. It serves as a symbol of the city’s vibrant and ever-evolving transportation history, adding to the urban fabric of Des Moines and offering a singular visual experience. The “Transportation Signature” mural is a testament to the city’s enduring legacy and its commitment to progress.

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