Ascending Path

Ascending path is a visual manifestation of this geographic, historical, and cultural significance. This sculpture brings together the diverse visual and cultural aspects of the community and expresses their commonality. Ascending path presents to the viewer a singular image of the perseverance and hope felt by all peoples as they cross into the unknown of their future.
The 23-acre Renaissance Park marks the intersection of the past, present and future for the community. The new wetlands park is informed by the site’s industrial past, rooted in the economics of a river locale, and also honors an earlier history of the region. The area witnessed the passage of the Trail of Tears, garrisons of African-American troops during the Civil War, and Camp Contraband - the post-Civil War migration of freed black refugees. The Park is also a physical nexus, offering sweeping views of the city’s identifying landmarks. Ascending Path is a visual manifestation of this geographic, historical and cultural significance. It is positioned at the site of the first Tennessee River bridge at Chattanooga, erected in 1864. Three main elements inspired the design: this first trestle wooden bridge, the Westward migration of people and Lookout Mountain. The sculpture features an abstracted mountain form, 10-feet tall trestle-style posts, and a bridge trestle component, fabricated in Cor-ten steel, which will oxidize to warm reds and oranges. Atop the bridge, seven cast silicon bronze figures march on their long journey. Blocks of Tennessee stone placed at the foot create transition with the site. Both a bridge and a gateway, Ascending Path marks a place of transition, presenting a singular image of the perseverance and hope felt by all peoples as they cross into the unknown of their future - a fitting tribute to Chattanooga’s civic rebirth.