Installation of local art works along trails

Local photographer Laurie Tennent received unanimous support from the Birmingham City Commission at their meeting on Monday, August 10, to mount a temporary installation of eight art pieces along Booth Park Trail, Quarton Lake Trail and Linden Park Trail for a one-year period. The Robert Kidd Gallery applied for the temporary installation permit on behalf of Tennent. It initially went before the city's Public Arts Board on June 17, which said that the art work was best suited for Birmingham’s network of trails and parks connecting to Quarton Lake. The arts board and Tennent both agreed that a one-year loan was a reasonable timeframe. City planner Brooks Cowan said staff worked with Tennent for the best locations, and she provided the board with a map and renderings of how the eight pieces of art work will appear in their locations. “Initially, the artist proposed one piece, but the arts board felt the more the better,” Cowan said. He noted that she would like to add solar lighting to four of the pieces, number one at Booth Park; number five at Linden Park; number six at Quarton Lake; and number 10 at Quarton Lake. She said she will add tags describing the art works. Tennent has a photography studio at 929 S. Eton in Birmingham's Rail District. Her fine art photography features floral photographs against black backgrounds on 40-inch by 60-inch metal canvasses that can withstand the elements. They have previously been featured on the Cranbrook Educational Community campus and on Belle Isle, as well at locations on a national basis. Tennent is a frequent contributor to Downtown. “We go for a zero footprint. They're very light,” Tennent said. She said with approvals, she could install the art works by the end of August. “I think they're absolutely beautiful. I'm all in favor,” said commissioner Rackeline Hoff. “I think this is a beautiful collection and we are lucky to have a talent like Laurie in our city,” commissioner Mark Nickita concurred.