Water Tanks Art
A Beacon Above the Trees
Nearly every city has a water tank. Even from afar, we see these massive, elevated storage units. They hover over the treetops or tower ahead on the open plains. Dull and gray, though, they often blend into the background. We hardly notice them. Unless they’re special. We remember the iconic ones. We remember the ones with character and charm. The ones that artistically symbolize a community and a piece of what it means to live there.
In some ways, water tanks are like lighthouses. But they’re usually lifeless. Void of design and spirit. What if such tanks could be seen as true beacons in the distance? What if they welcomed us home or represented a new adventure? Consider it. Your water tank may be the perfect chance to enhance your city, neighborhood, or downtown vibe. The structure is in place perhaps. Maybe it’s being constructed soon. Either way, a water tank with personality could turn your area into a destination.
Water tank art places art on the pedestal it deserves. High for all to see, it truly is a gift of joy and pride, and it benefits the entire community. Residents celebrate a masterpiece that represents part of their daily life. Tourists stop by to marvel and take photos. Who knew a water tank could be so grand and inviting? Did you ever imagine your water tank as a beautiful landmark?
The Perfect Canvas
Our mission began with a problem. We noticed that most water tanks around the country were ugly. You’d probably agree with us. Some were completely solid. Some displayed the name of the town in fancy script. But overall, they were boring. Yet these giant domes had potential. They were blank canvases. And they were very visible canvases, too!
At Di Bari & Associates, we chose to embrace the water tank, and we’ve been doing it for years. So many of our water tank creations bring excitement and wonder to cities. Take associate artist Eric Henn’s Peachoid, for example. What a bright and whimsical sight as you’re cruising on I-85. The peach is sunshine on a cloudy day, and it’s taken Gaffney, SC, from simple southern town to star landmark in Netflix original, House of Cards. Gaffney has been the Peach Capital of South Carolina for a long time. The water tower was built in the 1980s, and it resembled a peach. But this now iconic water tank of the South represents what tank sculptures and/or murals can be and do.
Speaking of murals, the Katy Texas Freeway Tank has taken the U.S. and certainly the great state of Texas by storm. It’s even received global attention. Of the 270 entries for Tank of the Year 2018, associate artists, Rolf and Peter Goetzinger, took home the prize. No molding fruit shapes or adding leaves here. The brothers painted a water tank, as is. And it’s magnificent. Blue sky, swirly clouds, geese and other waterfowl soaring above passersby. The scene gives locals a sense of ownership, and tourists consistently stop by the small town for a visit.
You already see the power these stunning storage tanks can have on small town America. But larger cities benefit as well. Eric Henn struck gold again with his Pistons gas tank in Detroit, Michigan. The oversized basketball that celebrates both the NBA and WNBA teams also connects the Marathon Oil refinery with the city. An otherwise drab industrial setting is now marked by colorful sports pride and unity.
Henn’s Oceans in Tampa, Florida, is another instance of big city tanks come to life. He turned an overwhelming 18,000 sq. ft. Citgo oil tank canvas into a dazzling underwater world. Cruise ships are welcomed by the sight, and city residents witness their work in living color before them each day. They take great effort to protect these specific endangered sea animals every year. Once again, an oil refinery’s presence is made beautiful, and it stands for cooperation and care for the environment.
View our tank art gallery, and be amazed by the unique designs and striking imagery of these memorable landmarks
Tanks of Beauty
We love art in public places. It’s part of our mission here at Di Bari & Associates. We believe that beauty will save the world. We envision emotional cityscapes as the way of the future. And it starts today! Inspiring landmarks that contribute to our pride, happiness, and strength. Buildings, park fountains, and even water or oil tanks can be made meaningful and memorable via art.
Art in a museum is hidden. But art among the people is for everyone. It brings neighbors together and makes outsiders feel like part of the place! It’s likely that you’re already dreaming of a unique water tank, and we can make that dream a reality. Give your city a tank that’s more like a bright trophy – one that they’ll talk about, connect to, and cherish.