The artist organized a three week residency with elementary students from Ocotilla and Maryland Avenue Elementary Schools, two schools in close proximity to the proposed Maryland Avenue Bicycle Bridge. Ms. Bales introduced the second, third and fourth graders to stunning images of bridges throughout the world. She then led the students through the process of producing collographs (cardboard relief prints) based on the pictures of bridges they were shown.
The artist designed eight relief patterns inspired by the student’s artworks. The relief designs enhance the concrete walls approaching the bridge. The project helped give local residents a sense of ownership and participation in the public art process.