PROJECT OVERVIEW

When the City of Lakewood released a Request for Proposals seeking a creative partner to help explore the role of public art within the community, studio Chartreuse enthusiastically responded with a vision rooted in design, placemaking, and community engagement. Recognizing the power of public art to bring people together, create neighborhood identity, and generate civic pride, our team developed a proposal that showcased how creativity could transform public spaces into memorable community destinations.

Following a competitive selection process, studio Chartreuse was selected to design and implement what would become one of the City's first large-scale public art initiatives. The project centered on Rosewood Avenue, where our team was tasked with transforming an ordinary street into an immersive work of public art that would celebrate community, creativity, and connection.

Designing artwork for an active roadway presented a unique set of challenges. The mural had to function both as a compelling visual experience and as a durable installation capable of withstanding weather, traffic, and daily wear. To ensure the project's long-term success, studio Chartreuse partnered with global coatings leader Sherwin-Williams to research and specify the most appropriate paint systems and application methods for asphalt and roadway surfaces. This collaborative process helped establish a framework for creating public art that was both beautiful and built to last.

Community participation was a central component of the project. Rather than simply unveiling a completed mural, studio Chartreuse invited residents, volunteers, business owners, and local supporters to take part in the installation process. Together, hundreds of hours were spent painting the expansive design by hand. While the project took significantly longer than anticipated, the experience fostered meaningful community connections and created a sense of collective ownership that became just as important as the artwork itself.

The mural quickly became a neighborhood landmark and a source of local pride. Beyond the physical installation, the project generated significant community interest, media attention, and positive public relations for the City of Lakewood. To celebrate the completion of the mural, studio Chartreuse helped organize a public unveiling event that brought residents together to experience and celebrate the city's newest cultural asset.

The success of the Rosewood Avenue project demonstrated how thoughtful design and community participation can work hand in hand to create meaningful public spaces. It also helped establish a foundation for future public art initiatives throughout the city and surrounding region.

Through strategic design, community collaboration, and a shared commitment to creativity, studio Chartreuse helped the City of Lakewood transform a public street into a celebrated community landmark—demonstrating the lasting impact of public art on neighborhood identity, civic pride, and community connection.