- The city of Gainesville selected local artist Sarah Hinds to create the "Common Light" art installation for the new GPD Property and Evidence Building fence.
- "Common Light" will measure 5 by 10 feet and is expected to be unveiled after the building's completion in mid-2027 along NW Sixth Street.
The city of Gainesville has selected local artist Sarah Hinds to create “Common Light,” a public art installation for the Public Art Fencing Project at the new Gainesville Police Department (GPD) Property and Evidence Building.
According to a city of Gainesville press release sent on Friday, the artwork was chosen through a competitive qualifications-based selection process led by the Gainesville Art in Public Places Trust with input from Gainesville Police Department representatives and the project’s design team. Community feedback also played a significant role in the selection. During a two-week public exhibition and online survey, 1,162 residents shared their opinions on the proposed designs.
“Common Light” features a series of interconnected circular forms that evoke citrus slices, bicycle wheels, train wheels and sunlight while allowing viewers to interpret the imagery in their own way. Flowing structural bands woven throughout the composition reference pathways, rail lines and the rhythm of music, reflecting connections across the community.
The Gainesville Art in Public Places Trust evaluated proposals based on artistic excellence, creativity, responsiveness to the site, durability, quality of materials, long-term maintenance needs and community relevance. The Trust selected “Common Light” for its artistic vision, ability to foster a sense of community and thoughtful use of durable materials that will create a lasting civic landmark reflecting Gainesville’s history and shared values.
Hinds, a Gainesville-based visual artist, community arts facilitator and creative placemaker, has completed large-scale public art installations throughout the United States. A graduate of the University of Florida with a degree in anthropology, her work focuses on the relationships among art, community, place and well-being by creating public spaces that reflect local history, inspire connection and celebrate shared community values.
Hinds will collaborate with Cultural Affairs Manager Carol Velasques, the project team and GPD throughout the design, fabrication and installation process.
The finished artwork will measure 5 feet by 10 feet and will be installed along a section of fencing between the new GPD Property and Evidence Building on Northwest Sixth Street and the adjacent Rails-to-Trails multiuse path. The installation is expected to be unveiled following completion of the facility in mid-2027.
