Broward Cultural Division’s Public Art and Design team continues to produce excellent work in support of the County Commission’s commitment to art in public spaces. Building on the momentum of exciting developments in downtown Fort Lauderdale, one of the team’s latest initiatives is the artful transformation of the Andrews Avenue bridge with a dynamic new light installation by Los Angeles-based artist and architect Susan Narduli.

The site-specific lighting artwork will activate our riverfront by transforming the drawbridge that spans the New River between Las Olas Boulevard and South Fifth Street.

Narduli was selected for the commission from a field of 55 applicants who applied to the initial call to artists. She and the Narduli Studio will begin installation of the project in spring 2022.

In partnership with Broward County’s Highway Bridge and Maintenance Division, the Cultural Division is currently overseeing the public art portion of this renovation project, which includes replacing the bridge’s electrical, mechanical and hydraulic systems, upgrading the sidewalk ramps near the bridge, the bridge-tender house, installing noise mitigation components on the bridge deck, and lighting under the bridge deck.

Narduli describes her work as being at the intersection of art, architecture, technology, and public space, and the Andrews Avenue Bridge project is no exception. Her winning concept employs pattern, color and custom programming to express the synergy between the city and the river around which it developed. As a bonus, the artwork enhances public safety in the area by using light under an otherwise dark bridge.

The artist selection process included a public charrette with local artists, designers and other key stakeholders from the community to provide their feedback. Stakeholders’ insights were also incorporated into the design proposal via an online survey. Those interested in submitting feedback for the art team’s consideration can do so here or email Meredith Clements at mclements@broward.org to request access to the survey form.

Narduli’s work is well-known and has received numerous awards. Her installation on the façade of the Metropolis Towers in downtown Los Angeles features an integrated LED display, nearly 100 feet wide where the artwork is fueled by data. Narduli’s work is cutting edge and will be a great addition to downtown Fort Lauderdale.