As Raleigh imploded our old convention center, a new functional meeting space on a city block was being built. Best practices of Art and Design were applied along with LEED certification in the construction of Raleigh’s Convention Center. 
Raleigh’s Shimmer Wall created by local artist Thomas Sayre consist of thousands aluminum hinged squares depicting wind blown limbs and leaves of an iconic Raleigh oak tree in Nash Square. 
( The iconic Raleigh oak tree in Nash Square was cut down Oct 10 2019 leaving the Shimmer Wall our lasting image of this sacred tree. Mostly tree disease, age and fear of it falling)
Permanent displays of local artist Thomas Sayre is one of the endearing aspects of the Raleigh Convention Center. An international artist who resides in Raleigh, Sayre has several examples of his work throughout the building. 
Raleigh’s bronze mascot originally stood in Bicentennial plaza between the NC History and Science museum. Sir Walter was moved to Raleigh’s former pedestrian mall which is now Fayetteville street. The statue reclaimed local fame when it was placed in front of the Raleigh’s convention center.
The moving shadows in the convention center entertain me when I am in the building. The time of day becomes instinct reading the shadows on the carpet and walls.
Local Artist fill empty spaces with significant art throughout the building. An occasional George Bireline, consistently Gayle Stott Lowry as some art seems permanent while others appear for a limited period. Art happens as the seasonal shadows change
Originally posted 2019-01-11 04:49:52.
