Art selected for playground equipment

SANDPOINT — Following a “call to art” from the city of Sandpoint, the city council has selected local art that will be showcased on playground equipment soon to be installed at Travers Park.

Four panels of art from artist Lori Reid will spin on the “we-go-round,” which is described as an accessible merry-go-round. 

The selection was recommended by the Arts, Culture and Historic Preservation Commission. Commissioners made a decision following discussion at a recent meeting. 

“They believed this [art] was very relatable to children, it was colorful, engaging — there was a lot of movement, and it told a story,” Heather Upton, Sandpoint’s historic preservation officer, said. “The artist also has an MFA as an illustrator.”

Since plans for Travers Park already feature themes like Sandpoint stories, Into the Woods and Patrick McManus books, Upton said recruiting local artists for the new playground equipment seemed appropriate.

The call was open from March 4-11 and invited artists to submit unique pieces that fit the theme of the Travers Park inclusive playground. City officials said they preferred art from illustrators who are local to Bonner County or that had art featured in a local author's book, Upton said. 

They also asked that at least one panel reference something like ADA accessibility, to reflect the inclusive nature of the playground. 

“It's really terrific that the city reached out to local artists for the merry-go-round art and I am grateful to have been chosen,” Reid said. “What a lovely legacy.”