Chakaia Booker Installs New Tire Sculptures in Akron

The 17-foot structures were installed at Lock 3 in anticipation of an upcoming dedication ceremony.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Fine Art

Chakaia Booker Installs New Tire Sculptures in Akron

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Artist Chakaia Booker has installed two massive tire sculptures at Lock 3 in Akron. The project, commissioned by Curated Storefront, combines stainless steel with recycled Goodyear racing tires.

Why it matters

The installation adds a significant piece of permanent public art to the downtown area. The project was financed through a combination of public and private funding to enhance the local cultural landscape.

The two sculptures measure 17 feet in height and have a combined weight of 10,000 pounds. Installation of the pieces, which feature recycled Goodyear Racing Eagle tires, was completed in four hours.

The players

Chakaia Booker

She is a renowned contemporary artist known for her complex, large-scale sculptures created from repurposed rubber tires.

Curated Storefront

This is an Akron-based non-profit organization that commissions and installs public art to revitalize underutilized urban spaces.

Thomarios Construction

The firm is a specialized contractor experienced in handling complex architectural and public art installations.

The details

Thomarios Construction used a crane to lift the sculptures onto pre-installed threaded rods and footers before a welder secured them with washers and cap nuts. The pieces serve as a prominent new feature for the Lock 3 area in downtown Akron.

October 26, 2026: The sculptures were installed at the Lock 3 site.
October 28, 2026: Artist Chakaia Booker will host an artist talk at 6 p.m. at the Akron Art Museum.
October 29, 2026: The sculptures will undergo an official dedication ceremony at 1 p.m.

Industry Dynamics

This installation reflects the broader trend of municipal revitalization through high-profile, site-specific public art commissions. It strengthens the role of institutions like the Akron Art Museum in integrating professional artistic installations into urban redevelopment efforts.

Residents can view the new sculptures at Lock 3 immediately following the installation completion. Public access to the artist talk and the official naming ceremony provides local engagement opportunities for those interested in the arts.

The takeaway

This project showcases how industrial materials can be transformed into significant public landmarks. Residents can visit the Lock 3 site at their convenience to view the sculptures as they prepare for their formal debut.