A Special Call for Volunteers & Workers in Des Moines

October 14, 2015  |   Events,   Initiatives
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A unique public art experience in Des Moines, Iowa: The majority of the redesign of Des Moines’ Cowles Commons (formerly Nollen Plaza) by New York landscape architect, Ken Smith, was completed this past summer. The final feature of the project is a public art installation by Jim Campbell. Campbell is a renowned light artist, who has been in Des Moines supervising the installation of his sculpture, and he will need assistance to complete the task. The basic superstructure of the sculpture was installed the week of 5 October 2015. The remaining details of the installation will continue over the next few weeks.

Study for "Untitled Work" by Jim Campbell
Study for “Untitled Work” by Jim Campbell

The sculpture has 5,000 LED lights that need to be individually installed. They are to be installed within oval metal rings that will be suspended overhead from the superstructure. Each ring will be lifted into place as soon as the lights within it are installed. The light installation process will begin on Tuesday, 20 October 2015, and continue for approximately two weeks.

Thousands of computer controlled LED lights will create the illusion of figures that disolve and resolve as the public moves around and beneath the suspended, cloud-like matrix that will illuminate the plaza.
Thousands of computer controlled LED lights will create the illusion of figures that disolve and resolve as the public moves around and beneath the suspended, cloud-like matrix that will illuminate the plaza.

The proposed work schedule is flexible, however individuals must SIGN-UP in advance. That way the organizers will know the number of available workers (an estimated 4 to 6 workers can be participating at the same time, morning through evening, weekdays and weekends). People may sign-up to work a lot or a little, your choice. The artist is providing compensation for these tasks at a rate of $15/hr for each worker.

People can volunteer individually or form their own teams. The work will take place within Capital Square adjacent to Cowles Commons. The public will be able to watch the new lighted rings being installed. The task is not physically demanding and does not require special skills, but it could be fun to spend time with some friends, while contributing to the latest iconic identity for our city.

If you are interested, please contact Calvin F. Lewis at [email protected]

The project was commissioned by Des Moines Performing Arts.
In support of its mission, the Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation helped to support this project which will be seen and enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors each year.