Largo Metro Station ArtStop

Creative PlacemakingArt of Place

Apr 24

Written By Jendayi Asha

Perennials

Medium: recycled plastic, recycled aluminum, power leaf solar panels, solar power system, RGB LED, steel

ARTIST STATEMENT

The Perennials is an innovative art and sustainability project featuring patented, solar-powered digital sculptures made from recycled plastic. These hand-painted, standalone pieces incorporate smart city capabilities while celebrating individuality through vibrant colors and organic forms. Inspired by nature, each sculpture emits radiant hues at night and includes a painted mural at its base, extending the artwork into the surrounding space. As viewers interact with the installation, they become part of the piece itself, like pollinators engaging with a bloom—symbolizing connection, transformation, and shared meaning.

The concept originated in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, serving as a powerful emblem of renewal, resilience, and hope amid destruction. The Perennial reflects nature’s capacity to regenerate, offering a metaphor for displaced communities rebuilding their lives. As the sculptures are installed in diverse locations, they echo the dispersal of seeds—representing climate diasporas who establish roots and enrich new communities with strength and vitality.

Beyond symbolism, The Perennial integrates technology and environmental consciousness, contributing practically to urban life through solar energy and smart systems. It transforms public art into a functional resource, providing light, connectivity, and environmental data. Rooted in sustainability and inclusivity, The Perennial offers a vision for a regenerative future—reminding us that how we care for our environment is deeply tied to how we care for each other.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

ANAITTE VACCARO

Anaitte Vaccaro is an international-award-winning Digital Scenographer, born and raised in Puerto Rico.

She coined the term Digital Scenography to define her expansive work in creating immersive, multi-sensory experiences - total works of art that merge a myriad of artistic disciplines with technology.

Her work has captivated millions worldwide, spanning fine art, installations, architainment, live productions, theater, performance, visual effects for film and television, concerts, motion graphics, animation, and interactive media.

With a distinctive creative vision, Anaitte transforms spaces into unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experiences.

She has been granted two US Patents for her latest piece, The Perennial: www.soblime.com

The Perennial was awarded at CES 2020 by New Voices, CTA, and CES. It is a serviceable, interactive, sustainable, art sculpture with a goal for nationwide installations. Inspired by the devastation of Puerto Rico after Hurricane María and the US withdrawal of the Paris Agreement, it’s an ambitious project promoting sustainability, climate diaspora, and consciousness to make wellness ubiquitous for everyone.

Her work has been featured around the world.

Anaitte and her work have been featured in numerous television, radio, print and online publications.