CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — There’s a new art installation to explore in Charlotte’s South End. A Charlotte-based artist and her team have created nature-inspired light displays along the rail trail.
There are nine light displays along the pedestrian path showcasing the neighborhood’s history.
“I love putting art in unexpected spaces and meeting people where they are in that way,” said Meredith Connelly.
Connelly is the brains behind the rail trail lights display presented by U.S. Bank.
“Charlotte is ever-changing and growing, and we’ve gone through a lot of growth, and I think sometimes it’s hard to forget where it started,” she said.
Her goal this year was to create a story, showing how South End started as an industrial community and has evolved into a center for art, design and technology.
“It’s not just about where we are today,” said Connelly. “There was a journey, and I think that kind of aligns with the journey of the rail trail walking along this path.”
The city is the backdrop for the light installations displayed at various points along the rail trail. Each piece has a story. One is called “cairns,” which is the Scottish word for “heap of stones.” It’s inspired by the tradition of stacking stones to mark paths and symbolizes the journey of settlers to this area.
For some, you have to look overhead. Others, you’ll see on the ground. At each piece, there’s a sign with a QR code that you can scan to learn more or to listen to a peaceful soundtrack as you walk.
“For me, creating accessible spaces where people can have an experience, a cultural experience, it doesn’t cost money and perhaps maybe for their first time, that is really my passion and mission,” said Connelly. “I always feel really humbled by people just taking a moment to spend with it.”
The light displays, displayed between Atherton Mill and Bland Street, will be up through Feb. 23.
