2021–2022 Les Grube Memorial Design Award Winner: Buster Simpson, LLC
The Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute (CLFMI) proudly announced that the 2021–2022 Les Grube Memorial Design Award has been presented to Buster Simpson, LLC of Yakima, WA, for their exceptional work on the Pearsall Park Wickiup Encampment Project in San Antonio, Texas. This award recognizes innovative and artistic uses of chain link fencing, and the Wickiup Encampment is a shining example of design ingenuity and craftsmanship.
Situated along a scenic public walking trail at Pearsall Park—a space masterfully designed by BWC Design—the Wickiup Encampment serves as both a functional shade structure and a captivating public art installation. Funded by San Antonio Public Art, the project draws inspiration from traditional wickiup shelters, reinterpreting them through modern materials and artistic vision.
The wickiup “blankets” are composed of five layers of mesh, each secured with stainless steel ties for durability. The twisted wire ends are carefully capped with swaged sleeves, ensuring both safety and a polished finish. At the heart of each blanket lies a UV-stabilized, powder-coated woven wire chain link (3/8″ mini-mesh). This core layer is flanked by two layers of stainless-steel twisted wire mesh on each side, creating depth, strength, and visual texture.
What sets this project apart is the artistry of the center chain link layer. Different colored coils were woven together to produce a multi-colored blanket effect, transforming a utilitarian material into a vibrant design element. The result is a dynamic interplay of color, light, and shadow that enhances the park’s atmosphere while offering shade and comfort to visitors.
In addition to the Les Grube Award, the Wickiup Encampment was also honored with a national award from the Americans for the Arts Public Art Network, cementing its status as a celebrated achievement in public art and design innovation.
