If you’ve walked along FROG Park’s greenway from the DMV toward Hardy Park, you’ve likely noticed the cement sculptures along the path. And, you’ve probably noticed that they are no longer functioning as designed. Since the project’s installation in 2010, time, weather, and even vandalism have all taken a toll—and now the project is being restored.
Artist Mark Brest van Kempen was selected to create the Rockridge-Temescal Greenbelt project, which features these monoliths with viewing scopes directed toward hidden animal sculptures representing native wildlife formally found in the area. Inspired by the transformation of Temescal Creek and its surrounding landscape, the installation invites visitors to reflect on local habitat loss.
Brest van Kempen felt inspired by the site’s location and, specifically, how it has transformed over time. He was intrigued about how the Temescal Creek had been under-grounded and eventually erased from the landscape by urban development long before the creek was recreated on the surface. He created the sculptures, scattered throughout the greenbelt, almost like artificial objects in museum dioramas—serving as reminders of its history.
“I hope that the project helps viewers learn about the original landscape that no longer exists, and reflect on the idea of habitat loss close to home,” said Brest van Kempen.
The project was funded by the City’s Public Art program, and the current restoration, including replacing missing elements and adding an anti-graffiti texture to the monoliths, is expected to be completed over the next few months—allowing visitors to interact with the viewers as originally intended.
