The gateway marks the entrance to the City of Newark along Thornton Avenue, establishing a strong visual identity for the revitalized Old Town Newark district. The project aligns with the City’s vision for a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood that supports local businesses, diverse housing, and an active pedestrian and bicycle-oriented streetscape.

The design draws directly from community input, integrating themes rooted in local history, cultural diversity, and the natural environment, while contributing to a welcoming public realm that encourages gathering and connection.

The artwork translates these objectives into a contemporary gateway defined by light, color, and material expression. Stainless steel, dichroic glass, and dichroic film on acrylic are composed to create a dynamic visual experience that shifts with changing daylight and movement.

This interplay of materials produces an ever-evolving landmark that reflects the energy and diversity of Newark, functioning as both a threshold and a focal point within the district, signaling arrival while reinforcing identity, vibrancy, and community presence.