Moments ago, a new public art installation was unveiled in North Buffalo at 1375 Hertel Avenue. It was Councilmember Joel Feroleto who took the lead on this initiative to procure the 5’ tall letters that spell out “BUFFALO”.
Earlier in the month, I joined Feroleto, for a visit to Arc Iron Creations in Kaisertown, where we met up with blacksmith and metal forger Andy Chambers, whose team fabricated the lettering.
The letters were designed in-house at Iskalo Development Corp, using a slightly tweaked variation of the font “Broadway”. The font partially pays homage to the historic North Park Theatre.
The work of art is now installed near the corner of Hertel and Saranac, on the lawn of The Cornelius Apartments.
Feroleto was inspired to move forward with this project after visiting other cities. Throughout his travels he came upon similar public works that he felt contributed a sense of pride to the respective cities. This particular work of art features two different perspectives – when viewing from one angle, the sculpture reads “BUFFALO”. When viewed from a side angle, it spells out “BFLO”.
“The addition of this sculpture will add yet another wonderful asset to the Hertel Avenue public art collection, contributing further to its reputation as a vibrant and walkable neighborhood,” stated Councilman Feroleto.
“All of the public art that has been popping up on Hertel Avenue has had a profound impact on the area and has increased foot traffic to neighborhood businesses!” added Hertel Business Association President Judy Porto.
“Councilman Feroleto has been tireless in his efforts to add vibrancy to his council district through the addition of public art and we are pleased to support his efforts with this latest installment,” stated David Chiazza, Executive Vice President of Iskalo Development.
“It was a pleasure to be able to work with Councilman Feroleto, Iskalo Development, and the Hertel Business Association on this project. I am proud and honored to play a part in adding this piece to the Hertel Avenue community,” added Andy Chambers of Arc Iron Creations.
