The Design Review Board of Reston, Virginia, convened on March 19, 2024, to discuss the latest developments in a community sculpture project aimed at promoting sustainability and artistic expression. The meeting featured presentations from students involved in the STEAM program, who outlined their innovative design concepts and engineering strategies for the sculpture.

The project, which utilizes recycled materials, emphasizes the importance of environmental consciousness. One student highlighted that the sculpture would be crafted from remnants of previous sculptures, embodying the resilience of nature and aiming to inspire sustainable practices within the community. The design is projected to have less than 9% waste, showcasing a commitment to minimizing environmental impact.

Amanda, a senior in the STEAM program, presented the evolution of the sculpture's design, initially inspired by carousels. She noted that the final design was chosen based on its popularity and feasibility for construction. Andrew, another student, discussed the engineering challenges involved in creating a stable structure, emphasizing the use of individual units to enhance balance and strength.

The sculpture is planned to stand 14 feet tall and 18 feet wide, making it the largest project undertaken by the team to date. The students assured the board that safety measures, including steel bracing and tension cables, would be implemented to secure the sculpture against strong winds.

Stella, a sophomore, introduced kinetic elements to the design, including aluminum tree tags that would interact with the wind, adding a dynamic visual aspect to the installation. The team also discussed their fundraising efforts, which totaled $7,000, primarily through community events and sales of calendars.

The board members expressed enthusiasm for the project, with several offering constructive feedback on the design and safety considerations. A motion was made to approve the concept, which passed unanimously, allowing the students to proceed with their plans.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the collaborative spirit of the community and the commitment to creating a sculpture that not only serves as an artistic landmark but also promotes sustainability and environmental awareness. The students are eager to continue refining their design and look forward to bringing their vision to life.