About the Exhibition
Biff Elrod (b.1946, Fort Worth, TX) stated that his intention for Ascent-Descent was “to create a positive transition for riders as they descend into the station, and to provide a sense of curiosity and anticipation as they ascend from the platform.” Elrod painted figures and contiguous areas of colors so that they gradually change from dark to light as one moves from the entrance to the platform level. Each figure is unique and simulates gestures of travelers using the stairs. In addition to the entrance, the work comprises a series of eight panels throughout the four flights of stairs leading to the platform.