Rolling Dreams I & II
Italian-ceramic-inspired murals reimagine bike infrastructure
Created in collaboration with the Southwest Business Improvement District (SWBID) and the D.C. Department of Transportation (DDOT), these energetic maiolica-inspired artworks serve as inviting landing pads for two new bike corrals - art and infrastructure coming together to enhance cyclist safety, encourage multi-modal transportation, and increase community vibrancy.
I chose Italian maiolica designs because the artform celebrates craft and a human touch - the art emanates this feeling and tells viewers “this is a space that is cared for and loved.” That a public space - and public infrastructure - is used and loved should be considered the greatest of policy achievements.
While maiolica has been evolving for centuries, these designs are inspired by the feeling of movement and the vision of bicycle wheels in motion - a fun, swirling energy that spills across the public pavement canvas.
Industry & Client
Non-Profit, Government Southwest Business Improvement District (SW BID), D.C. Department of Transportation (DDOT)
Location
Southwest, Washington, D.C.
Materials
Pavement paint
Services
Public Art
Rolling Dreams is a small but vibrant example of how thoughtful public art can work with infrastructure to foster safer, more beautiful, more active, and more human streets.
What do people think?
The public response has been deeply affirming. While painting on site, I had conversations with around 80 people—residents, workers, and tourists from a wide range of ages and backgrounds:
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Families took pictures with the art.
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Local workers said it brightened their day.
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Cyclists told me the corral placement and design made a real difference.
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One taxi driver from Fairfax even got out of his cab, took a card, and said he’d advocate for murals like these in his own neighborhood.
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Some folks were actually a bit disappointed that a bike rack would atop this mural because they liked it so much.
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There was only one partially critical comment: one resident was concerned about losing parking, but she changed her mind when I shared the project’s purpose - she appreciated the work I was doing and the art!
All this is to say that even when there is skepticism from some about supporting public art in infrastructure, the people served by these investments immediately see public art’s value and impact. Rolling Dreams is a small but vibrant example of how thoughtful public art can work hand-in-hand with infrastructure to foster safer, more beautiful, more active, and more human streets.
