ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A new piece of public artwork has been installed outside of the historic S&W Building in the middle of downtown Asheville.

“Fluvial,” simultaneously an art installation and public seating, was designed, installed and crafted by Red Metal artist Rachel David. The piece is located to the immediate left of The Times Bar & Coffee at 56 Patton Ave.

(Courtesy: City of Asheville) Artist Rachel David introduces her Urban Trail piece, “Fluvial.”

Along the Urban Trail

“Fluvial” is the newest stop along the Urban Trail, a downtown walking tour of 30 sculptures tied to Asheville history. “Fluvial” fills Station 7/30 on the UT.

“Fluvial reimagines and replaces the long vacant Station #7 on the Urban Trail and is inspired by Art Deco architecture, Douglas Ellington’s S&W Building and David’s unique artistry,” the city of Asheville wrote on the project page.

A call for artists to submit proposals for Station 7 went out in April 2024. David’s piece was selected by a panel of community stakeholders and Public Art and Culture Commission members in July 2024.

“Fluvial” was officially unveiled to the public at 1 p.m. today, Nov. 13, and is now available for visitors to enjoy.

“Fluvial” photos

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