Celestial Crossings is a cosmic-themed traffic calming art project that connects Maree Garnett Farring Elementary / Middle School with the nearby public library and Garrett Park in Baltimore’s Brooklyn neighborhood. Located at 3rd and Patapsco Streets, the project was initiated by the Greater Baybrook Alliance to achieve its community-driven vision for creative placemaking and transportation safety improvements in the neighborhood. The public artwork was a collaboration between Annie Howe Papercuts and Graham Projects.
The project seeks to embed the artistic visions of local youth at the intersection of Patapsco Avenue and 3rd Street. Annie Howe and the Graham Projects team met with residents at community meetings and facilitated a drawing activity for local students at the adjacent Maree Garnett Farring Elementary-Middle School. We developed three design options based on what we heard and saw. Through a public survey the community chose Celestial Crossings to enhance the high-traffic intersection.
The community constellations of Patapsco Avenue and Third Street shine through the Celestial Crossings traffic calming pavement art design. The artwork is inspired by the many stars and colorful patterns shared in local students’ drawings. A vibrant night sky flush with stars, swirls, and an enchanting moon evokes wonder for those making their way across the intersection. Use these luminous cosmic bodies as wayfinding like you would navigational stars of the night sky.
Project partners: Greater Baybrook Alliance, Maree Garnett Farring Elementary / Middle School
Design Team: Lead designers: Annie Howe & Zoe Roane-Hopkins, Art Director: Graham Coreil-Allen
Installation Team: Annie Howe, Melvin Jadulang, Liam Arbeiter, Jonathan Zoccoli, Mar Braxton, Rachel DeTone, Graham Coreil-Allen
