In April 2003, in a juried selection process, the Cultural Arts Council of Houston and Harris County submitted to WOW the names of nearly 100 artists whose work was viewed by WOW's art committee and several professional jurors. From this field, twenty-four local and regional artists--among them sculptors, painters, photographers and ceramists-were invited to submit concepts. Three finalists emerged who developed detailed proposals for WOW's consideration.

In November, the artist Tim Glover, whose work best met WOW's creative guidelines, was selected. "The chosen work reflects the unique character of our community," says WOW President Pamela Covington, "with its rich heritage, its proximity to a City of the future, and its eclectic culture.

"Don't forget, this part of the Old West End is home to a vital arts community, a mixed basket of architectural styles-tin houses and depression era bungalows-and a legacy that includes Memorial Park and Camp Logan. Our chosen artist has met the challenge."

Tim Glover, along with landscape architect Keiji Asakura will work closely with WOW to create a beautiful and distinctive landmark. The work reflects a unique approach to the roundabout, broadening the perspective by encirling the area with five beautiful structures rather than placing a work in the middle. The five steel sculptures emulate the prized Post Oak that currently graces the center of the circle. The work folds nicely into the daytime environment, while providing an attractive nightime luminosity.

Asakura, selected by WOW in March 2003, is involved in a number of other Houston urban improvement projects, among them the East End Master Plan, Buffalo Bayou Trail Plan, and the Museum District Walk, an eight-block corridor that will promote 16 museums in the district near Hermann Park.

The WOW Roundabout is part of an urban renewal plan and the first of three intersections to be redeveloped in the Washington Avenue corridor. The other two are planned for Houston Avenue and Heights/Yale and Waugh. More detailed information on WOW's background, a short history of Washington Avenue, and FAQs can be found at the organization's website at wowroundabout.org.

I hope this gives you some insight into the excitement that we all have in making our neighborhood a beautiful point of arrival and departure for our residents and the community at large.

Rochella Cooper