Written by Liz Foreman, Brand Manager, Downtown Main Library Staff
Your BLINK festival itinerary, opens a new window isn't complete without visiting Phronesis, a new permanent light-based and interactive artwork by internationally renowned artist Jen Lewin. Located on the South Plaza of the Downtown Main Library, the sculpture is part of the building's significant renovation, opens a new window, which debuted in July 2024.
Jen Lewin's work may be familiar to Greater Cincinnati residents as her installation, The Pool, was featured in BLINK 2017's inaugural festival.
About Phronesis
The eight light pillars of Phronesis range in height from 13 feet to 28 feet and include a custom wireless mesh LED system created and coded by Jen Lewin. Every sequence is different, with Phronesis featuring an original flow and color-changing pattern that mimics the way the wind rustles through the trees. The artist meticulously coded each color, transition, and moment within the dynamic, illuminated sculpture. The installation comprises over 29,000 LED lights, creating a stunning and immersive visual experience.
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About the Artist
Jen Lewin is an artist and engineer based in Brooklyn, New York. Over her 27-year career, Lewin has honed her architectural background and a highly technical medium to fabricate large-scale, interactive, public sculptures that encourage community interaction and play.
Phronesis Dedication
The sculpture was formally dedicated on October 16, 2024, in a ceremony featuring Jen Lewin, artist and creator of Phronesis, Colleen Houston, ArtWorks CEO & Artistic Director, and Paula Brehm-Heeger, Director of Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library.
ArtWorks led a call to artists in 2021 for the project, which received 144 applications from nine countries and 36 US states.
View Phronesis 365 days a year at the Downtown Main Library, opens a new window.
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