Unity Arches

  • The five dynamic arches are installed in the perimeter of the Family Support Center of the Lutheran Family Health Center’s outdoor parking lot.
  • Included in the project is the “Learn, Love, Grow” mosaic, which covers and decorates a large window.
  • The artists secure a series of planks for the arches.
  • Even though they did not ultimately paint their proposed mural, the teammembers were united during the weeks spent drafting the mural design, as they all worked together towards one goal.
  • The project participants included adults of diverse nationalities, enrolled in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at the Lutheran Family Health Center.
  • The designs on the arches and the mosaic stands include both natural motifs and abstract geometric imagery.

Project Description

“Unity Arches” is a series of five wooden arches with varied dimensions created for Lutheran Medical Center and its Family Health Centers' Family Support Center. All five arches are stabilized with wooden bases decorated with mosaic tiles. The original vision of the project was to create a mural along the perimeter of the Center’s parking lot, painted on plywood and installed along the lot's fence. The mural design would celebrate the benefits of the Center to the local community. The community sharing of the proposed mural, however, raised controversy among local residents. While the mural was intended to show unity, a divide arose among residents who approved of the project and those who didn't want to see a mural on their block. The conflict over the mural became an important element of the final project. The group was forced to rethink their ideas based on the feedback received at the community meeting. The project inspired all participants to both stand up for what they believe in and realize a great deal of untapped creativity.

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Project Info

Fun Facts

Suggested Activity
There are many interesting patterns included in the arches. Create your own colorful geometric designs inspired by the arches.
Legend Symbol
The arch. The arch as a symbol holds many meanings. It can be a door to a new opportunity or it can be the support for a current venture.
Question about the Mural
The arches read Love, Knowledge, Friendship, Power, and Peace. Can you think of other words that reflect community empowerment?