Andy Cross, Carl Harris, and Ty de LaVenta | 2006

Sound wall between Skinker and Forest Park-DeBaliviere MetroLink Stations
Waterjet-cut aluminum panels mounted on 115 sections of concrete wall
3,700′ w. x 6′ 4″ h.

An overlay of lacy aluminum silhouettes, titled A Walk in the Park, embellishes the distinctive concrete privacy fence, called the Catlin Wall, which runs parallel to the MetroLink tracks between the Skinker and Forest Park-DeBaliviere MetroLink stations.  Pedestrians, car passengers, and MetroLink riders enjoy this visual enhancement whenever they pass by.

Upon closer inspection, viewers may observe that the fence isn’t just a fence, but an artwork unified by a series of cut metal panels depicting trees, vines, leaves, and trellises.  A Walk in the Park adds a layer of visual interest stretching over a half mile along the Parkway.  Due to the thoughtful design plan, the Catlin Wall is more than a functional sound and privacy wall for the private homes along its south side.  It also punctuates and add aesthetic grace to the fence’s public side.

Originally, the waterjet-cut aluminum panels were the same flat gray hue as the cement fence, but exposure to the elements has formed an iridescent patina that highlights the silhouetted elements, causing them appear to hover in front of the wall.

Commissioned by Arts in Transit for Metro Transit St. Louis.