Downtown Berkeley BART Station hosts Rose Pavilion art installation

Starting Monday, July 16, 2012, the main entrance to the Downtown Berkeley Station will be transformed from a functional transit stop into a rose-inspired art installation.  The art piece blends photography with poetry and is part of a creative collaboration between BART, the University of California Botanical Garden, the Downtown Berkeley Association and local artist Deborah O'Grady.

“I changed this BART station into a 'Rose Pavilion' that, when viewed from the platform between the escalators, will resemble stained glass windows comprised of rose images captured in the garden,” Deborah O’Grady said.

“Thousands of daily commuters and pedestrians will be inspired by this creative artwork in the heart of the revitalized Downtown Berkeley,” John Caner of the Downtown Berkeley Association said. “We also hope this amazing 'Rose Pavilion' installation becomes a must-see destination within the BART system.”

On Monday, July 16th, O’Grady; John Caner of the DBA; and Paul Licht, Director of the UC Botanical Garden, will present the “Rose Pavilion” to BART Board President John McPartland and Linda Maio, Berkeley Vice Mayor.

The “Rose Pavilion” installation will consist of 19 photographic panels sized to the fit into the windows of the Downtown Berkeley Station Rotunda.  The images are related to the concurrent UC Botanical Garden art show, "Natural Discourse.”  “Rose Pavilion" is expected to be on display at Downtown Berkeley BART Station until early next year.