The City of New Rochelle is proud to announce that Diane Gwon, a New Rochelle resident, has been chosen as winning artist for her magnificent submission to the much anticipated ‘Downtown Gateway Art’ project. This colorful, public facing installation is one more example of the continued and ongoing effort to champion the flourishing arts community that has thrived in New Rochelle for all its history.
Now, as you travel downtown in New Rochelle, you will soon notice the triangular graphic motif on the North Avenue Railroad Bridge. This original digital art piece, conceived and developed by Ms. Gwon, directly plays off the triangles encompassed in the logo of New Rochelle. The unique colors are no coincidence, as Ms. Gwon’s choices of vibrant and bright aesthetics were inspired by the spirited and diverse community throughout all parts of our city. Observers will notice the sailboat and water lines on the right, which represent visually the importance that the harbor has played in New Rochelle’s history, as well as championing the area as a top destination along the Long Island sound. Ms. Gwon, submitted her artwork that included the words “New Rochelle Train Station” as a signature wayfinding element while incorporating her personal artistic characteristics into the piece. In addition to having her artwork displayed, Ms. Gwon will receive a $3,000 prize.
The winning submission was chosen amongst a group of 11 detailed and creative projects – all offering a distinctive and special take on their ideas for the Downtown Gateway. New Rochelle takes great pride in lifting its residents up, across all fields and expertise, and providing a way to showcase the eclectic and blue-chip talent we have around us all, every day. Ms. Gwon’s winning artwork will serve as both an orienting landmark and a celebration of New Rochelle’s downtown revitalization, highlighting and uplifting the city’s vibrant art scene.
The Jury of Selection was comprised of members of the Municipal Arts Commission of the City of New Rochelle. Applicants were judged on originality, creativity, composition, and adherence to the intended theme. As a bonus for local submissions, current and formers Residents of New Rochelle received 5 additional points toward their total score, thereby encouraging local residents to participate.
“As the City of New Rochelle’s diverse arts community continues to grow and develop in an organic way, we are proud to offer an inclusive and welcoming cultural canvas in which artists can thrive,” said Adam Salgado, Development Commissioner of the City of New Rochelle. “Growing side by side with the revitalization and development seen throughout every part of the city, we are proud to say that New Rochelle’s spirit of authenticity and artistic culture has provided a space where fellow artists and residents thrive, and their work is appreciated and publicly celebrated by their neighbors and visitors.”
“I am delighted to be chosen as the winner of the “Downtown Gateway Art Contest,” said Diane Gwon, a graphic designer from New Rochelle. “Having been able to experience all the good that New Rochelle has to offer, it feels incredible to be able to give back in such a public way. I hope residents and visitors alike find a sense of community when they are traveling downtown, and I look forward to seeing how the next generation of talented artists growing up in New Rochelle grow and succeed themselves.”
“We took great joy in reviewing the unique portfolio of submissions we received for the Downtown Gateway project contest. All of us involved felt a strong sense of community pride after seeing the vision and examples of creativity from local residents and community members. It is an exciting time for all residents.” said Marisa Boan, Chairperson for the Municipal Arts Commission for the City of New Rochelle. “Through a conscious commitment to our city’s artistic community, it is evidently clear that New Rochelle is primed to succeed with an influx of creatives, flocking to New Rochelle for its colorful culture and exciting new opportunities.”
About the City of New Rochelle
With its unparalleled location, superb quality of life, diverse and talented residents, and a focused business climate, New Rochelle is experiencing the transformation of a generation. The City’s current economic development plan will provide a spark for the entire Hudson Valley region, positioning the City as “open for business” and embracing smart, transit-oriented development growth patterns that promote open space, its close proximity to New York City and opportunities for businesses to rebound, recover and succeed in the current economic climate. Accelerated by a new, fast-track zoning process along with resources for small businesses and micro-enterprises, the ongoing Master Development initiative will continue to enhance the downtown area by supporting job creation, property values and private investment – while enhancing sustainability and livability through green and energy-efficient design. For more information on why New Rochelle is ideally yours, please visit https://www.ideallynewrochelle.com.
