Courtesy photo.
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County announce the opening of the second edition of the Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition Monday, May 19 at the Elizabeth “Liz” C. Archuleta County Park in Flagstaff. An opening reception begins at 11 a.m. and includes a welcome by Mayor Becky Daggett and remarks by City and County officials and participating artists. The event is free and open to the public.
This year’s exhibition brings together powerful cultural expressions through large-scale sculptures by artists Olivero Balcells, Isaac Caruso, Joe Ray, Adrian Wall and Lance Yazzie. Artworks reflect personal and shared histories while exploring themes of nature, family, and cultural motifs. Collectively, they add new layers of meaning to a park already rich in visual storytelling and community spirit.
“This exhibition is a testament to artistic excellence and the importance of cultural visibility in public spaces,” said Jana Weldon, City of Flagstaff’s Beautification, Arts & Sciences Program Manager. “Each sculpture represents a compelling perspective and transforms the park into a space of discovery and joy for residents and visitors.”
The Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition was curated through a collaborative process involving a selection panel comprised of representatives from the City of Flagstaff’s Beautification and Public Art Commission, Indigenous Commission and the Commission on Diversity Awareness, and Coconino County’s Parks and Recreation Commission, Indigenous Peoples Advisory Council, Hispanic Advisory Council and African Diaspora Advisory Council. Artist selections were based on creative merit and experience with site-specific public art. Panel recommendations were approved by the City of Flagstaff’s Beautification and Public Art Commission last fall.
Launched in spring 2024, the project originated as a recommendation by the Indigenous Circle of Flagstaff calling for increased cultural representation in public spaces. It evolved into a broader collaboration between the City and County, expanding its focus to include multicultural perspectives.
“When people talk about a space having life, such as this park, it comes with it a perspective from the space itself. What does the land need and want to live and thrive there,” said Rose Toehe, Indigenous Affairs Administrator for the City of Flagstaff. “The conversations and planning that have gone into this very significant place within our community are now coming full circle through enjoyment, healing, and inspiration. I see the park and feel happy to sense the energies of the art, artists and community relatives who visit and appreciate it.”
“The County is honored to collaborate with the City of Flagstaff and partnering artists on this sculptural art display,” said Cynthia Nemeth, Coconino County Parks and Recreation Director. “This project is more than just a celebration of creativity—it’s a reflection of our community’s vibrant cultural tapestry. We’re proud to support projects that cause human connections with one another and nature, spark meaningful conversations and make our shared public spaces feel like home.”
In addition to the new sculptures, park visitors can experience a storybook pathway, the Willow Bend Environmental Center’s wildflower maze and butterfly mural, and a vibrant 65-foot-long community art wall that highlights the neighborhood’s cultural heritage.
“This project continues to transform the way visitors engage with the park,” said Weldon. “Our goal is to continue growing this exhibition into a nationally recognized destination for public art.”
The Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition is on view through March 15, 2026. For more information, visit flagstaff.az.gov/4935/Multicultural-Park-Sculpture-Exhibition.