MAC/KSU Bridge Installations

Weaving history

North Loop Bridge

Before Marietta became the city known today, the Cherokee people called this land home. As skilled artisans, they held nature and craft in high regard, weaving beautiful, functional baskets. Materials were sourced from the natural world around them, and the designs were unique to different clans. They used river cane, white oak, and honeysuckle to construct the baskets, and dyes from roots and walnuts to adorn them in color.

The tradition of basket weaving was passed down from mother to daughter, and with it, their legacy was shared through generations. Today, the city of Marietta commemorates its history by preserving the artistry and heritage indigenous to the land.

The North Bridge honors Cherokee culture by “weaving” past traditions with our present context, reminding the community that we are all connected. This piece was designed by KSU students Azizi Ivey, Laurel Scott, Rachel Servaes and Faculty Advisor Aaron Platt-Baker.

The radiant leap

South Loop Bridge

"The Radiant Leap” is a celebration of the journey from dreamer to master, reminding us that every expert was once someone who dared to imagine.

The silhouettes you see are real dancers from the Georgia Dance Conservatory in Marietta Square, embodying the growth and hope that define our community. A testament to the fact that every leap of faith — no matter how uncertain — carries you closer to who you're meant to become.

A special thanks to Gray Stoner and Ashleigh Whitworth from Georgia Dance Conservatory and GMDT for collaborating with us on this project; also Abigail Werner, whose photography of GDC dancers served as the inspiration for the silhouettes.

This piece was designed by KSU students Aubree Bethune and Asma Nadir, with help from faculty Advisor Keif Schleifer.