EVERYTHING
A Cappella is an innovative public artwork designed to celebrate the individuality and interconnectedness of Jacksonville’s musical voices across generations. The installation transforms song lyrics into an open-ended, interactive experience, positioning the city itself as a living symphony composed of varied perspectives and eras.
According to E-architect, the project was developed by The Urban Conga, led by Ryan Swanson and Maeghann Coleman, and is situated in the new Jacksonville Riverfront Music Garden. This installation does more than simply memorialize local talent; it functions as an invitation for visitors to become active contributors to the city’s ongoing cultural story.
Symphony Structure Meets Community Voice
The artwork is organized into four distinct sections, each inspired by a movement of a classical symphony. These movements are centered on core themes—motivation, home, love, and freedom—creating a sequence of experiences that collectively portray Jacksonville’s rich cultural identity. The design process involved extensive community engagement, resulting in a diverse collection of musical material.
The project utilized the following elements to build its foundation:
- A collection of 84 songs sourced from more than 60 Jacksonville artists.
- Musical styles and lyrics spanning decades, from the 1920s through the 2020s.
- Community input used by residents to identify songs that resonate with the city’s history and character.
The installation highlights how musical ideas explored across generations continue to influence contemporary culture, revealing both the diversity and continuity of Jacksonville’s cultural landscape.
Interactive Design and Visual Elements
A key feature of A Cappella is its commitment to play and discovery. Selected lyrics were deconstructed into individual words and short verses that can be rearranged and recombined by visitors. This playful act of remixing words from different artists, genres, and decades allows participants to discover unexpected connections while creating their own lyrical expressions.
The visual design further enhances the open-ended approach. The installation incorporates several physical elements designed for engagement and reflection:
- Dichroic and reflective panels that interact with shifting light, color, shadow, and reflections throughout the day.
- Integrated seating areas that encourage conversation and observation among visitors.
- A central circular bench serving as a communal focal point, which explains the relationship between the four musical movements and the artwork’s sections.
By successfully combining music, storytelling, public participation, and sophisticated visual design, A Cappella creates a dynamic environment that honors Jacksonville’s established musical identity while empowering new voices to emerge for future generations.