Coler Mountain Bike Preserve stands out for its exceptional qualities. It boasts an Airship Coffee spot accessible only by bike or foot, an extensive trail network offering diverse experiences ranging from smooth paved paths to challenging cross-country terrain, and an upgraded downhill hub featuring the thrilling dual downhill “Thunderdome.” Every aspect of Coler is crafted to deliver an extraordinary experience.
As you stroll along the central walkway, you might have been mesmerized by the enchanting music that seems to fill the air, coming from the expansive bridges above. It almost feels like the bridges are serenading you with their ethereal melody. And in a sense, that’s exactly what’s happening.
Craig Colorusso, a musician hailing from New York with a background in punk rock, created the piece. He has also crafted various audio and physical installations in Northwest Arkansas and other parts of the United States. Colorusso ventured into experimenting with sounds through the Bb Clarinet and Bass Guitar among other instruments on his musical journey, ultimately settling in Northwest Arkansas where he has both temporary and permanent installations on display.
Mike Abb, Creative Director for the Runway Group, credits Modus Studio with the stunning Coler Bridges at the park’s entrances. Abb was inspired by Craig’s previous work with the Sun Boxes installation at Mass MoCA in Massachusetts, which was later showcased at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville.
When asked about the reaction of people when they hear it, Colorusso said, “It’s an odd situation, coming from playing in punk rock bands it’s obvious who’s doing what because I’m holding an instrument or singing, but I can be just standing there and people don’t know that I made it. I think that’s kind of cool because I get their honest opinion. Besides saying they really like it, I hear things like, ‘Someone figured out how to make the bridge vibrate through the wind.'”
At the moment you are left to your imagination, according to the Artist, “There is no sign by design because I just wanted to make something that makes people’s day a little bit better.”
The project was funded by The Runway Group. You can find more of Mr. Colorusso’s work on his website. Also, visit the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve website.
(All photos courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism)
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