The recently completed Cultural Corridor Trail spans a 12-block pathway from the Old Mormon Fort at 500 E. Washington Ave. to the soon-to-open Mob Museum at 300 E. Stewart Ave. The trail features improved curbs, gutters, sidewalks, and concrete sidewalk enhancements created by artist Denise Duarte.

More than a simple sidewalk painting, Duarte’s vibrant “Flourish” is a series of colorful way-finding markers that identify and celebrate each of the area’s cultural institutions, including Cashman Center, Las Vegas Library, Las Vegas Natural History Museum, Las Vegas Shakespeare Company, Lied Discovery Children’s Museum, Old Mormon Fort State Park, The Neon Museum, and The Mob Museum. Twelve repeating “wings,” are meant to entice pedestrians and vehicles to follow the trail to the various cultural institutions, each of which has its own unique flourish reflecting its purpose, personality, history, and logo.

In addition to celebrating the diverse cultural expressions of Las Vegas residents, the trail enhancements are intended to celebrate the history of the area. The winding shapes are a nod to what was once the Las Vegas Creek, the water source that made it possible for the first settlers to thrive in the desert.

In her artist statement, Duarte says, “My work focuses on the point where aesthetic elements and environments are transitioning to socially significant and commonly held contexts.”

With funding from the Southern Nevada Public Lands Management Act (SNPLMA) and the Las Vegas Arts Commission, a total of five trails will be developed downtown. For more information, visit www.lvartscommission.com.

PHOTO: “Flourish” is a series of sidewalk embellishments created by artist Denise Duarte.