Carmel High School students partner with international artist for historic public art debut

Submitted by City of Carmel

The City of Carmel invites community members and art enthusiasts to celebrate the official unveiling of Channels of Connection, the newest addition to Carmel’s public art collection.

The unveiling will take place at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, at the Main Street and Lexington Boulevard roundabout.

First announced in May 2024, the illuminated piece by acclaimed international sculptor Casto Solano marks a historic milestone for the city: the first time Carmel High School (CHS) students have collaborated directly with an international artist on a public civic artwork.

“This sculpture represents the power of bringing world-class artistry directly to our young creators,” Mayor Sue Finkam said. “Having Casto Solano here in Carmel with us for the official unveiling makes this moment even more special. Channels of Connection is a testament to Carmel’s commitment to public art and to highlighting the talented young people in our community.”

Following the creation of high-profile pieces in Seattle, at the Bilbao Guggenheim, and on the French Atlantic Coast, the prestige of Solano’s work has driven ever-increasing demand for his artistry.

Through collaborative workshops led by CHS Art Department Chair Jennifer Bubp, students brainstormed ideas through sketches, poetry, short stories, and mural drawings. These student concepts were pitched directly to Solano during video workshops and incorporated into the sculpture’s fine details, including custom hair strands and a nod to the school’s mascot, the Carmel Greyhound.

“Watching our students pitch their ideas directly to an artist of Solano’s international standing was an unforgettable experience,” Bubp said. “Seeing their sketches, stories and creativity permanently woven into a public landmark gives our students a profound sense of pride and connection to Carmel.”

Set for installation during fall break by Indiana-based bo-mar Industries, Channels of Connection stands adjacent to the CHS campus, reflecting the city’s commitment to weaving youth voices into Carmel’s visual landscape.

About the artist
Casto Solano is an award-winning sculptural artist, native of the Basque Country in northern Spain, renowned for his distinctive creative vision and the flair and quality of his public artworks. Solano began his practice in Spain in the 1980s after studying fine art and engineering. Today, his works span the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, and Asia, commissioned by prominent clients and institutions bridging public and private sectors.