Dublin To Consider Building 22-Foot Moving Sculpture Downtown

DUBLIN, CA — The Dublin City Council will review a proposal for a 22-foot stainless steel kinetic sculpture called "Crossing Paths" that will be located at the northwest corner of Dublin Boulevard and Village Parkway, one of the city's busiest intersections.

The proposed sculpture, designed by Ride Art Studio, comprises two tall, curved columns etched with Celtic knot patterns, each crowned by glowing shamrocks that will move in the wind. They are also balanced on a 45-degree axis, which creates unusual and unpredictable locations. According to a concept description from Ride Art Studio, the sculpture's motion is meant to symbolize the idea of growth, renewal, and freedom of motion. The intertwined columns pay tribute to Dublin's reputation as the historical and modern crossroads of the Bay Area, and represent the notion of the intersection of of people, culture, and ideas.

“The kinetic movement of the shamrocks, as they interact with the wind, talks about freedom of movement and creates a timeless conversation of growth and renewal,” the proposal notes.

At night, the sculpture will be illuminated by customizable, color-changing LED lights at night, which will be visible from far away. City leaders hope the sculpture will become a landmark of the city, further define the identity of the Village Parkway District, enhance walkability, and contribute to a vibrant and growing downtown.

The proposal was approved 6-1 by the Heritage and Cultural Arts Commission, despite initial questions about potential overuse of the shamrock symbol in Dublin.

It is part of the city's 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Program, and is funded by the Public Art Fund, according to a staff report. The budget includes a $230,000 artist commission and $170,000 for site improvements.

See here for the staff report, here for the project proposal, and here for the Tuesday's full agenda.