FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff invites Southside residents, past and present, as well as those with strong ties to the neighborhood to contribute their memories and reflections for an upcoming public art installation. The sculpture, titled “Rustle,” will be placed at the newly named Cleo Murdoch Park, adjacent to the Murdoch Community Center at 203 E. Brannen Avenue.
The 8-foot-high weathering steel sculpture, designed by artist Beth Nybeck, will incorporate words and phrases contributed by the community into its leaf-like form. Symbolizing both nature and the interconnected stories that define the area, the piece will celebrate the Southside, its history and its people.
“This sculpture will reflect the voices of the Southside community,” said Jana Weldon, Program Manager for Beautification, Arts & Sciences. “We have prioritized neighborhood participation throughout the creative process to ensure that the artwork is truly communal.”
Nybeck is a nationally recognized metal sculptor and public artist. Her design was selected through a community-engaged process. Common themes from the selection panel and resident input include the importance of Southside history, the unity of the neighborhood, how the neighborhood is supportive of one another, equity and justice, multicultural experience and embedded memories.
“Rustle” is a meaningful and impactful addition to Cleo Murdoch Park that residents, visitors and future generations will be able experience for many years,” said Weldon.
Community members can submit their memories through Connect Flagstaff at connect.flagstaffaz.gov/southsidememories