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Chavis Reclaimed
Artist David Wilson designed a large painted glass artwork "Chavis Reclaimed" for the renovated Chavis Community Center during Phase 1 of the John Chavis Memorial Park Improvements project. The art glass is complemented by a colorful perforated sunshade that lines the side of the community center, referencing the colors of the historic Carousel and window artwork. The piece draws from historic photos to tell the story of the park and the surrounding community. During the day, the art brings light and color into the building, and at night, it acts as a welcoming beacon.
This project is a Percent for Art program completed as part of the John Chavis Memorial Park Improvements Phase 1 project.
Artist Biography
Durham artist David Wilson's current body of work charts iconic treatments of the natural world through representations of the universal as symbols of collective dignity and identity and are based in a collage approach. A primary driver in his public works is the creation of interpretation by all with an overall goal to foster introspection, communication, and provide a platform for education. Wilson brings a scientific approach to the creation of both fine and public works of art. He has researched and developed firing and glazing techniques for glass paintings studied the effects of light in spaces and discovered techniques for bending and welding metal, free-standing public structures.
About the Park Improvements Project
John Chavis Memorial Park in Raleigh, NC, reopened to the public on Saturday, June 12, 2021, after a two-year renovation that included a new community center, playground, and splash fountain. Phase one renovations included a state-of-the-art community center, artistic homages to the neighborhood’s past, an elevated walking track, basketball courts, event spaces, and a new playground with a splash pad. The carousel house, home of the original carousel and organ, has been renovated; it’s now a community rental space equipped with a warming kitchen and restrooms. The subsequent phases of the park will include the return of the swimming pool and a dedicated center to honor the history of John Chavis, the park, and Raleigh’s Black community entitled Heritage Plaza.
Visit or participate in a program at John Chavis Memorial Park.
Community Partners
Community members break ground on the new community center.
Special thanks to our community partners: The Chavis Public Leadership Group, South Park East Raleigh Neighborhood Association (SPERNA), and all the community members who have come forward to share their memories, stories, and images of the park and surrounding neighborhoods.
