Kings Beach Roundabout Art: “Da O Wa Ga” replaces “Swimming With Friends”in Roundabouts As “Friends” Finds New Local Home

 “Swimming With Friends,” a kinetic sculpture proposed by David Boyer to be placed in one of the new Kings Beach Roundabouts, has been replaced with “Da O Wa Ga,” a sculpture proposed by Brett Moten of Infinity Forge. 


The “Friends” piece was selected by the community at a public meeting last March (2015), but because of its kinetic elements, Caltrans cannot have it in the public roadway. TPA is finalizing the details of the placement of “Swimming With Friends” on private property. 

“Da O Wa Ga” came in third place in that public vote, just seven votes behind “Friends“ (out of 858 total votes cast). “Leaf Sails” by Troy Corliss, the piece selected for the other roundabout, remains planned for installation. “Da O Wa Ga” and “Leaf Sails” will undergo engineering review before final approval is given by Caltrans.


Although it is disappointing to TPA to make a shift in plans, everyone is well pleased that “Swimming With Friends,” will be placed on private property, including artist David Boyer. Notes TPA Executive Committee member Steve Miller, “In the long run, North Lake Tahoe will benefit by having three pieces of public art instead of two, all of them chosen by community vote!”


The Caltrans process, which until recently was halted statewide by the agency for policy updates, is anticipated to take several months. TPA plans to update the community through its website and facebook page. Any inquiries may be sent to tahoepublicart@gmail.com.