Metro officials unveil artwork for two stations

Metro officials today released sketches of new artwork that will be installed at two Metrorail stations in 2011.

The Takoma Park station will be graced with a brightly colored abstract mosaic tile mural by Washington-based artist Sam Gilliam. Gilliam is a renowned member of the Washington Color School of painters and is known for his abstract expressionist painting and sculpture. His mural will be installed in the underpass of the station's entrance.

The second piece, which will be installed at the 17th and I entrance of the Farragut West station, is by another Washington-based artist, Michael Sirvet. Sirvet's piece will be a series of "low-relief, botanicallly inspired aluminum and light sculptures." Most of the materials Sirvet works with are recycled or reclaimed.

If you're curious, DCist has illustrations of the artwork.

Funding for the Takoma Park station's project comes from the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities. The Farragut West project is funded by the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District with matching funds from the D.C. Arts Commission.