The Old First Ward will soon be home to some mighty fine benches. The artistic and utilitarian benches were made as part of the Small Built Works Studio (SBWS), orchestrated by Brad Wales, architect and University at Buffalo (UB) professor (see back story). The Buffalo Benches Project charged SBWS students to come up with remarkably designed benches that would visually enhance the Old First Ward Neighborhood, while providing people with thoughtful places to park their butts.
On Thursday, May 18, SBWS will be hosting a Show + Fundraiser: UB’s Benches Project in Old First Ward (see Facebook event) at 500 Seneca, from 6pm to 9pm.
SBWS has also come out with a preliminary map, showing where each of the benches will be placed. The map denotes the name of the bench, the artist, the City Right of Way, and the owner of the respective property. The benches will soon make their appearances out in the community. The map will come in handy for anyone looking to track down all of the amazing benches that have been meticulously designed and constructed by the students.
To keep up to date with the project, events, installations, etc., stay tuned to the Buffalo Benches Project Facebook page.