Tampa's skyline has a new silhouette, thanks to the recent addition of "Open House" to the city's public art roster. The 28-foot sculpture is now a part of the panoramic view outside City Center at Hanna Avenue, a vibrant testament to the community's aspirations and achievements.

The artwork, designed by Rhode Island-based artist Erik Carlson and his partner Ericka Carpenter, is described by the City of Tampa's announcement as an invitation for community members to interact with the pieces. Rendered in shades that mirror Tampa’s iconic sunrises and sunsets, "Open House" features over 300 street names within its design, sourced from residents through a citywide initiative. The piece is a marriage of art and architecture, drawing parallels to starting points—be it for homes, businesses, or new ventures.

"Public art preserves and tells Tampa’s story in a beautiful and thought-provoking way," Tampa's Mayor Jane Castor stated in the City's press release. She underlined the significance of making art readily available, particularly for youth who might not regularly encounter cultural arts. Carlson and Carpenter, boasting a portfolio that includes public works in Denver and Washington, were handpicked for their combined expertise in architectural design and poetic interpretation.

With approximately 800 artworks valued at around $19 million, Tampa's public art collection ranges from grand pieces like the towering "Lightning" at Amalie Arena to more discreet, historic sculptures tucked across the city. Notable mentions include "Visual Welcome" by Yaacov Agam and "The Wave" by MaryAnn Ungar along Bayshore Boulevard—both contributing to a visually enriched experience for passersby and fitness enthusiasts alike. The City of Tampa has confirmed that more state-of-the-art sculptures are on the horizon, with installations planned at the Tampa Convention Center.