Curated Storefront, the City of Akron, and the Ohio & Erie Canalway Coalition invite the community to celebrate the arrival of a major new work of public art by Chakaia Booker.

Rising 17 feet near the Main Street entrance of Lock 3, twin petals crafted from stainless steel and recycled Goodyear Racing Eagle tires will frame the pathway through the Cynthia and Landon Knight Hemlock Walk. Positioned in Lock 3 overlooking the Ohio & Erie Canal, the sculpture connects Akron’s past as a manufacturing hub with its present and future as a center for innovation. 

The commission marks Akron's first major contemporary outdoor sculpture by a woman artist.

Booker's dedication will also launch a broader celebration of public art in downtown Akron, with Curated Storefront exhibitions highlighting regional artists working in Akron today. Visitors are encouraged to experience the new sculpture, explore art throughout downtown's historic spaces, and learn more about the artists — past and present — who have helped shape Akron's cultural life.