Sunflower Power Poles
Sunflower Power Poles
An extraordinary display welcoming visitors to the future Gipson Play Plaza
Inspired by acres of summer sunflower blooms in Dix Park, the transformation of two utilitarian power lines into creative infrastructure amplifies the bold vision for Dix Park, attracts national attention and brings 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 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!”
