Cursive LA draws from the gestures of handwriting, translating the movement of writing into sinuous three-dimensional forms. The benches are playful and open to interpretation, inviting different ways of sitting, the imaginative use of space, and social interaction. Experienced as sculptures, signage and play structures, the artworks allow users to rest along a curve, climb atop or occupy the spaces in between the benches.

We developed a strong visual language and a flexible system of forms that could extend across multiple sites, and cover a vast area. A pair of Cursive LA spell out “L A” in cursive letterforms. Each bench can be a standalone object, or be arranged together according to the character and needs of each park.

Commissioned by the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture and funded by the County’s Measure A grant, Cursive LA and along with Folded LA are a collection of 36 civic art benches installed across nine neighborhood parks. The Measure A program supports the creation and revitalization of parks and public spaces in communities where access to quality open space and public art are limited. These benches celebrate the diversity of Los Angeles County, and serve as the only instance of public art in many of these neighborhoods.

This artwork is one of a series and can be found in Mona Park, George Washington Carver Park, Jesse Owens Community Regional Park and Enterprise Park