With some fanfare earlier this week, Building Bridges and Women Supporting the Arts dedicated their tile project on the East Stuart sign, located on Martin Luther King Blvd, and at Building Bridges itself. The tiles were hand painted by the children of Building Bridges and some remarkable seniors from the East Stuart community. This was the idea of Mary Ann Loomis of WSA and Commissioner Eula Clarke to bring public art to East Stuart. Ollie Harvey of Building Bridges quickly warmed to the project and the idea became a reality.

Though based and nourished in East Stuart, this tile project encompassed the energies of the entire city. Maggie Blizard, a snow bird, was the mentor to the children and adult artists. She enlisted the help of Stuart Ceramics to fire the tiles. Brenda Leigh, a local artist whose murals dot the county, did the heavy lifting of being in charge of the placing, cementing and grouting of the tiles. Others assisted where needed and made contributions to make sure the project was completed.  I was honored to be among those who lent assistance.

Public Art transcends a neighborhood or community and brings together each of us regardless of age or race. Looking at works of beauty stirs the hearts of individuals. It makes for better people and cities. Each time I pass that wall or Building Bridges, I will appreciate all those who had a part in bringing this to Stuart. For a city is more than just houses and offices. It is a place where people live and call home. Women Supporting the Arts and Building Bridges made our homes a bit more beautiful this week.