New Public Art Sculpture Unveiled at Rogue X

Published on September 20, 2024

The City of Medford is proud to announce the completion of the final piece of the Rogue Credit Union Community Complex construction project: a 15-foot-tall "Rogue X" public art sculpture. The unveiling ceremony took place on Thursday, September 19, at the main entrance of the Rogue X facility, located at 901 Rossanley Drive in west Medford.

This vibrant sculpture, weighing 680 pounds and crafted from welded aluminum, was designed by local muralist Melissa Ghiglieri, a graduate of Cascade Christian High School. The project was coordinated by Phil Ortega, the executive director of LifeArt, a Medford-based youth art collective. Ghiglieri collaborated with several area high school students to bring the art to life, creating a piece that not only reflects the facility’s active spirit but also celebrates the community.

The "Rogue X" sculpture showcases popular activities hosted at the 140,000-square-foot recreation center, such as swimming, basketball, volleyball, futsal, and pickleball. One side of the sculpture highlights the dynamic energy inside the facility, while the reverse side captures the beauty of Medford’s natural surroundings, with illustrations of local plant and animal life, and outdoor activities.

This $94,000 art installation was made possible through the support of the Medford City Council Community Initiative Fund, alongside City funds dedicated to public art. It stands as a symbol of community pride, creativity, and the strong partnerships between local artists, organizations, and students, enhancing the Rogue X’s status as a central hub for recreation and culture in Medford.