Echo Alley Illuminates Downtown Tulsa with New Public Art Installation by Rachel Hayes
TULSA, OK — Downtown Tulsa Partnership (DTP) is pleased to announce artist Rachel Hayes as the selected artist for Echo Alley, a permanent illuminated public art installation currently in development for the W. 5th Street Alley in Downtown Tulsa. The project will transform the working alley into a vibrant, light-filled pedestrian experience that enhances safety, celebrates Tulsa’s architectural heritage, and invites exploration.
Echo Alley is part of a larger Downtown-wide Alleyway Activation program aimed at improving walkability, increasing visible public art, and enhancing safety and comfort through creative lighting in underutilized spaces. Developed through Downtown Tulsa Forward, the city’s strategic investment plan guiding Public Realm Tax Increment Finance funding, the program seeks to create a connected network of inviting, distinctive alleyways throughout Downtown Tulsa. The W. 5th Street Alley, located on the north side of 5th Street between Cheyenne and Boulder Avenues, adjacent to hotels, residences, offices, and dining, was identified as a key opportunity to pilot this vision by transforming a publicly accessible, working alley into a vibrant and welcoming pedestrian experience.
Hayes’ design draws inspiration from Tulsa’s iconic Art Deco architecture, translating its geometric patterns and optimistic spirit into contemporary stained glass and light. The installation includes two large glass panels, three smaller sconces, and a dramatic glass banner, all constructed from individually mouth-blown stained glass produced at Monarch Glass Studio in Kansas City. Each piece is set within custom aluminum frames and backlit with warm LED lighting, allowing the work to glow after dark while maintaining durability and low maintenance.
“Echo Alley transforms a working downtown alley into an unexpected gallery of light and color,” said Hayes. “It’s a place where beauty and grit exist in harmony, where Tulsa’s incredible Art Deco heritage is celebrated through a contemporary lens.”
The lighting design plays a central role in improving the pedestrian experience. During the day, saturated colors interact with the historic brick and stone surroundings. At night, warm amber light casts patterns across the alley walls, increasing visibility and comfort while creating an entirely new atmosphere.
“Projects like Echo Alley show how thoughtful public art can do more than beautify a space,” said Jamie Pierson, DTP’s Public Realm and Placemaking Manager. “By introducing high-quality lighting and artistic elements into a previously underutilized alley, we’re improving perceptions of safety while creating a place people want to walk through, linger in, and return to. We’re thrilled to be working with Rachel on a project that balances creativity, functionality, and a deep respect for Downtown Tulsa.”
Hayes, a Tulsa-based artist since 2016, brings a personal connection to the project. Her practice combines traditional craft techniques with modern materials, resulting in work that feels both timeless and forward-looking. The installation’s materials are engineered for outdoor use, with laminated glass panels designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and eco-friendly LED lighting rated for long-term performance.
Hayes’ selection builds on a growing body of public work in Tulsa. In 2023, she completed The Dome at 924 S. Boulder Avenue as part of the Urban Core Art Project’s fourth temporary public art installation. Titled “Reflection Mode”, the large-scale fabric installation introduced bold color and form into the built environment and marked Hayes’ first major public art project in Tulsa. Her work consistently explores how art can transform everyday spaces into moments of reflection, curiosity, and connection.
Installation of Echo Alley is planned for late summer or early fall 2026, with Hayes present on site throughout the process to ensure the integrity of the final work.
The name Echo Alley reflects the project’s intent to echo Tulsa’s past while creating a new, contemporary destination, one that supports safety, celebrates culture, and strengthens Downtown Tulsa’s public realm.
For updates on the project and installation timeline, visit the Downtown Tulsa Partnership website or social channels.
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