If you’ve driven by during the past week, you’ve surely noticed the art tree temporarily on display in Loftin Park just north of City Hall. Its colorful, gold-flecked leaves shimmer and dance in the sun, and at night it glows by the light of color-changing LEDs. “The Oasis,” created by Bellaire resident Paul Robertson, will be there for all to enjoy through the end of July before (hopefully) heading to Burning Man in Nevada if it happens this year.Having garnered positive attention on social media and attracted lots of passers by to see it in the artist’s front yard, The Oasis was relocated to public property at the invitation of our citizen Culture and Arts Board. Working with staff they made all the arrangements, and the piece is now on loan from the artist at no cost to the City. In presenting its recommendation, the Board did a play on the tree theme, tying it to this month’s Planting Palooza. The installation was formally celebrated yesterday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring the Robertson family, friends and neighbors, and city representatives.
The Oasis enhances public art in Bellaire, contributing to our quality of life and serving as a focal point for community building and civic pride. It’s uplifting and fun, and comes to us at a time when we can all use some good cheer. That the artist is one of our own makes it that much more special, and we’re pleased to have this opportunity to showcase his talent and to share it with a wider audience.
