ooooh what’s that??… I’ll admit I’m a fan of shiny objects and easily distracted by them just like everyone else. With that said, I’m driving in Deep Ellum a couple of months or so ago and I’m stunned by this new sculpture that is clearly in progress at the time. What is it?? Where did it come from? What is that shiny mirror like finish? Are those birds?!?! You betcha!
Come to find out it is a series of three installations called “The Traveling Man” for the new DART station off of Good Latimer AND it is a collaboration by two creative geniuses I greatly admire, Brad Oldham and Brandon Oldenburg. Both Brad and Brandon are literally oozing with talent, they can’t help it - they draw, they paint, they make things move, they built hugely awesome art…put them together and look out people! Between these two guys, their clients range from the Ritz Carlton to Disney (Wouldn’t we all love to be so lucky?). Brandon is one of the founders of the amazing Reel FX and has since started Moonbot Studios and Brad is sculptor+product+lighting+hardware+architectural features+all-around incredibly talented artist and designer.
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The traveling man story, in a nutshell… Deep Ellum is home to so much history. The birds are an interpretation of the beautiful souls of all the musicians/songbirds and people who have been a part of this rich past. The materials, design and execution were carefully selected to look towards the future of Deep Ellum. You can read the full story here.
I know, birds. Yes, we all have a thing for birds right now. Especially these birds. The material is actually stainless steel polished to a mirrored finish and it’s so beautifully executed. AND FYI - sometimes form does meet function as these adorably designer chic birds double as a seat on their back sides.
More concept sketches can be found on the Traveling Man Facebook page for more info and even more great photos…
Even their signatures are cool.
Love to see people interacting with the art…
Congratulations Brad and Brandon. This was a HUGE undertaking and a labor of love. So fun for all to enjoy.
wow- huge undertaking..i see that!
this is all a delight to see- these shiny public sculptures. The touch of whimsy is lighthearted and wonderful.
Good to see some fresh life pumped into one of my favorite areas of Dallas.
I just drove by these for the 1st time on Saturday and did a total double-take. Such great scale to these…fun and whimsical. They put a smile on my face :)