Steve Appleton
Caligraphic Seating
2010
Project Area: Chinatown
Project: Cathay Manor Bench Project
Project Location: 600 N. Broadway
Project Type: CRA/LA Initiated
Description:
Using a combination of benches and table and sitting stools, Caligraphic Seating was designed to provide a comfortable place of rest for the senior residents of the Cathay Manor Apartments. Cathay Manor is a large senior citizen and low income housing project in Chinatown that accommodates the Chinatown Senior Citizen Center.
Steve Appleton worked with the property owner to focus on Feng shui aesthetics and selected materials, colors, and forms that are regarded positively in Chinese culture.
The benches were fabricated from highly durable and low maintenance materials of concrete and laminated bamboo wood slats. They feature the color of green jade, which has been long associated with good luck by symbolizing energy and beauty. This particular shade of green has the added benefit of blending the furnishings harmoniously into the garden setting. Four table stools include a flower image sandblasted on the top with a black base to accompany some of the benches.
Caligraphic Seating can be found throughout Cathay Manor’s interior courtyard and a few of pieces near the main entrance on Broadway. Additional funding for this project was provided by a grant from the Historic Cultural Neighborhood Council.
For other projects, please see:
Art Projects
