Sunflower Power Poles
Imagine two towering sunflowers welcoming you to Dix Park
Coming Fall 2024
Inspired by acres of summer sunflower blooms in Dix Park, the transformation of two utilitarian power lines into creative infrastructure will amplify the bold vision for Dix Park, attract national attention and bring joy to the community.
Artist Thomas Sayre stands with a prototype petal
Transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary
Designed in partnership with Duke Energy and Thomas Sayre, a local sculptor and painter known for public art projects and commissions in Raleigh and around the world, these sunflower poles will each feature 48 stainless steel petals between 8’ and 10’ long. Standing at 73’ tall along Lake Wheeler Road, the poles will be clearly visible and greet park visitors at the entrance to the new Gipson Play Plaza.
This is a rare opportunity to create an exciting and unique emblem for Dix Park and the City of Raleigh. Once installed, these power poles will be among only three known powerline structures in the U.S. that celebrate community by transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.
“The opportunity to take the ordinary and make it extraordinary is something to be celebrated. I am thrilled to play a small part in supporting this creative infrastructure!”
