chromatic light installation by non-profit ‘beyond walls’ aims to diminish crime in massachusetts

poor visibility in the dark underpasses beneath the rail line in downtown lynn, has produced a  high amount of crime and vehicle-pedestrian accidents. beyond walls aims to minimize these issues by proposing urban interventions: street-art murals, vintage neon sign art and dynamic underpass lighting. the once-avoided urban spaces have become vibrant landmarks in downtown lynn, where people feel more safe and welcome. 

warren jagger photography

payette joined the program in 2016 to work on the design of the underpass lighting. 

merging art, history and technology, beyond walls restored and displayed vintage neon artwork from the collection of dave waller of brickyard VFX. on display are artifacts of classic commercial americana, which have been refurbished to expose their retro glory. newly mounted on downtown buildings or displayed in storefronts throughout the downtown cultural district, these nostalgic pieces evoke the heyday of the city.

image © warren jagger photography

the piece’s illumination brings more light and increases the walkability and economic vitality of downtown lynn. the project was funded by gifts, grants and in-kind labor and equipment donations. the project’s high-efficiency philips LED fixtures consume only as much energy as sixteen of the city’s street lights. 

image © warren jagger photography

image © warren jagger photography

image © payette

image © payette

image © warren jagger photography

image © warren jagger photography

image © warren jagger photography