Locust Memories, Oak Dreams
Locust Memories was created from three locust trees removed from the site of the old Conestoga Recreation Center. The trees were salvaged and carved into benches by Fisher. This adaptation, along with the reuse of the cobbles from the cobblestone wall as paving stones, showcase reuse and transformation.
Oak Dreams is a series of concrete etchings that feature oaks, identified by neighbors as one of their favorite trees. The delicate etching designed by fisher activates the new concrete at the recreation center.
The project is part of Room for Growth, a beautification and environmental interpretation project in West Philadelphia that highlights the connection between nature and the healing, transformative power of education. Based in the visioning process of youth, community, and educators the project was conceptualized to bring learning and growth to the neighborhood through connecting to and transforming the environment. Through interviewing, community events, and youth art education classes, artists have developed three booklets of community ideas, input, stories, and art. This material has acted as a primary source for five mural series, greening efforts, and an etched concrete playground and spray park at the Conestoga Recreation Center.
