Phoenix Unveils Stunning New Monuments Honoring Eastlake Community Heritage

The City of Phoenix celebrated the dedication of two new sculptures designed to honor the cultural heritage and resilience of the Eastlake Park community. The ceremony attracted local residents and neighborhood leaders who gathered to recognize this significant addition to the area’s artistic landscape.

Titled “Elevated,” the new public art installation serves as a prominent gateway to Eastlake Park, with sculptures prominently situated at the corners of 16th Street and Washington and Jefferson. Each 20-foot-tall, illuminated monument features hands that rise like pillars, holding a vibrant sunburst. Inscribed with vital words such as Virtue, Education, Music, Justice, Community, Arts, Equality, and Culture, the sculptures reflect the essence of the Eastlake community.

“These hands represent the soul of Eastlake Park. It is a community built on resilience, cooperation, and hope—values that continue to shape this neighborhood’s incredible story,” explained artist Joshua Wiener. He emphasized that the colorful, glowing structures are celebrations of the community’s spirit and commitment to one another.

This initiative forms part of the broader Edison-Eastlake Community revitalization efforts. The City of Phoenix has partnered with local stakeholders to promote and preserve the area’s cultural significance through art, celebrating its diverse history as a vital part of downtown Phoenix.

District 8 Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington remarked on the importance of the project. “This installation symbolizes a powerful gateway to Eastlake’s rich heritage and vibrant future. It honors the community’s deep cultural roots and serves as a beacon of resilience for generations to come,” she stated. She expressed gratitude for the support that made the project achievable and highlighted the collaboration with local artists and leaders.

The City’s Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) spearheaded the project, working alongside the Office of Arts and Culture and other municipal departments. NSD staff collaborated closely with the artist and community leaders to see the project through to completion.

Spencer Self, Director of the Neighborhood Services Department, commented, “The ‘Elevated’ sculptures embody the spirit of Eastlake and underscore our commitment to fostering community pride through meaningful public art. This project is an investment in preserving the unique identity of this neighborhood for generations to come.”

Virgil Berry, president of the Eastlake Park Neighborhood Association, noted, “These monuments symbolize the strength and unity of our neighborhood. They remind us of the strength we’ve drawn from one another and the progress we’ve made while inspiring us to continue building a brighter future together.”