~ Competitions ~

These custom bike racks were entered into the Metro Nashville Arts Commission Public Art Phase II Bike Rack Competition. We include them here as examples of civic-minded, functional art.

“Quill”- This rack is a metaphor for the continued efforts of bike enthusiasts to introduce legislation that encourages and promotes bicycling as an alternative mode of transportation. An inkwell (as water fountain) extends the metaphor, while providing an opportunity for refreshment for those securing a bike.   

“Tomahawk” - The Trail of Tears passed through Nashville; the Cherokee crossed the Cumberland River on a toll bridge near the current location of the Victory Memorial Bridge. This tomahawk, based on the ceremonial pipe types of the late 1800's, is embellished with the 3 stars of the Tennessee flag,  a broken arrow symbol - Cherokee for peace - on the tobacco bowl, a small music note on the base, and an engraved bicycle on the blade to inform users.

"Flamingo" - In celebration of the 55th year of this cultural phenomenon, this rack  would be installed at the Nashville Zoo, which recently opened a Flamingo exhibit.