The internationally acclaimed CODAawards celebrate the projects that most successfully integrate commissioned art into interior, architectural, or public spaces. Entries are reviewed by a jury of thought leaders in the design, architecture, and art worlds.
We are pleased to announce that Michael Szabo’s Prairie Crossing has been selected for the 2021 CODAawards Top 100. The two People’s Choice winners and the 10 category winners selected by the jurors will be announced with a global media campaign and on CODAworx in late August 2021.
Prairie Crossing consists of a 50’ long undulating seating bench that gives way to a web of grasslike arches. Evoking the beautiful chaos of prairie grasses, the web provides a gateway for those entering the Municipal Complex. In the daytime the arches provide shade for rest or conversation while creating intricate shadow designs on the ground below. At night, in-ground up-lights inside and outside of the seating wall illuminate the structure for a dramatic effect from the street or for those approaching on the trail for an evening walk.
This sculpture was commissioned along with Entwine by the city of Wylie to activate the walking trails on the grounds of its Municipal Complex. By exploring the parallel between Wylie's cultural identity and its native Texas Blackland Prairie eco-region, the pieces create a visceral experience for citizens and visitors by illustrating how elegantly the deep roots of people and place can take the lead in defining change and growth into the future. The concept for these pieces was developed through research into the natural and cultural history of the region and ongoing dialogue with the community and city staff.