The Regional Transportation District commissioned “Seven Sisters” with help from the Denver Urban Renewal Authority, Pepsi Center Arena, and Elitch Gardens Amusement Park. This public art commission was awarded based on the drawings and models presented as a finalist in an open competition. The site responsive design was intended to appeal to the people who would be experiencing it; Light Rail riders who would be attending events at Pepsi Center Arena or enjoying the rides at Elitch Gardens Amusement Park.

“Seven Sisters” is site responsive, an approach that utilizes the characteristics of a site to engage the site’s users with work that is relevant to their situation or concerns. The whimsical sculptures were designed to respond to the recreational experiences of passengers using this particular Light Rail station. These figural abstractions embody the fun and engaging expectations and attitudes of the people who view them. Alighting on the platform immediately in front of the station, the sculptures mirror the experience and enthusiasm of their audience.

The pieces were designed as three-dimensional forms using rolled tube steel with complex compound curves. Reaching 24 feet above the station platform, these seven elements had to be installed over 3 long nights while the Light Rail was inoperative and its high-voltage electric lines were shut down. Built in an industrial steel yard with a mobile overhead crane, the pieces were individually trucked to the site on oversized flatbeds.

This monumental installation serves as a gateway and landmark for the new Light Rail station. As colorful, friendly shapes they announce the arrival of passengers to this urban environment. As fun, figural abstractions, these site responsive designs pay homage to the attitudes and enthusiasm engendered by the people who use this Light Rail station.