Installation Features Local Artists Cassandra Ott and Chuck Tingley
ERIE COUNTY, NY— Erie County’s second public art installation under the county’s Public Art Act, a vibrant, large-scale mural covering the Pearl Street wall of the Buffalo Convention Center, was unveiled on Wednesday morning. Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz was joined by Legislator Lawrence Dupre (1st District), artist Cassandra Ott, members of the Arts in Public Places committee, Convention Center General Manager Jeff Calkins, and personnel from the Convention Center and the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning for the unveiling.
“This installation reflects our commitment to making public spaces that inspire and uplift the community,” said Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. “What was once a drab, uninspiring wall has become a dynamic, engaging mural that beautifies the streetscape. I thank the artists for their work and the Committee for moving this project forward.”
The project features a large-scale mural by Buffalo-based artists Cassandra Ott and Chuck Tingley. Covering most of the Convention Center wall along Pearl Street, the design draws inspiration from Buffalo’s beloved blue and red. The artists envisioned a colorful corridor down Pearl, one that celebrates Erie County’s welcoming communities, deep histories, and industries along Lake Erie. A harmonious swell of blues and reds flows across the wall, with natural elements, waves, and fingerprint motifs lining the sidewalk to symbolize the city’s unique connections. Highlights of metallic gold evoke the sun over Lake Erie and add a dynamic shimmer to the piece. Upon completion this will be one of the largest public art pieces in Western New York.
Ott’s work is rooted in nature, patterns, and optimism, while Tingley blends abstraction and realism in murals and paintings. Together, their styles create an engaging and inviting visual destination for both residents and visitors.
“Adding this mural to the Convention Center adds brightness and visibility to the facility, similar to what was accomplished through the county’s investment in the front façade on Franklin Street,” added Convention Center General Manager Jeff Calkins. “It’s a big improvement and our thanks go to all who teamed up on this project.”
For more information:
On the Erie County Arts in Public Places Initiative, visit https://www4.erie.gov/publicart/
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