Shade Takes Center Stage in Innovative Public Art Projects

Artists AZ(Land) were selected to create an artistic shade-focused installation at Steele Indian School Park (photo courtesy of City of Phoenix Arts & Culture Department).

The Phoenix Arts & Culture Department has announced the selection of nine artists for its innovative “¡Sombra!” public art project. Unveiled in July, the initiative aims to create much-needed shade and cooling installations in various public parks, including Los Olivos, Steele Indian School, and Sunnyslope. This project emerges in response to the extreme urban heat faced by Phoenix residents.

Supported by a substantial $1 million Public Art Challenge grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies, the installations will serve as temporary solutions while fostering community dialogue about urban heat. Key stakeholders, including the City of Phoenix Arts & Culture Department and the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation, aim to showcase scalable responses to combat rising temperatures.

From nearly 80 submissions nationwide, nine artists were selected for their innovative concepts that blend effective materials with strong community engagement. Among the chosen artists are Arizona-based creatives: Shomit Barua at Los Olivos Park; Jose Benavides and Joe Ray at Cielito Park; AZ(Land) at Steele Indian School Park; Feng-Feng Yeh at Eastlake Park; and Bobby Zokaites at Cortez Park. National talent includes Jessica Arias at Sunnyslope Park, Josie Davis & Jenny Boehme at Roesley Park, Kira Dominguez-Hultgren at Maryvale Park, and Luke Haynes at Sereno Park.

These parks were identified as high-need areas by community partners. While the grant stipulates that these installations are temporary, city representatives indicate a willingness to explore permanent solutions based on the effectiveness of these experimental projects.

The “¡Sombra!” installations are slated for spring 2025, followed by a family-friendly festival at Steele Indian School Park in September 2025. This festival will feature children’s activities, food, music, and workshops aimed at educating attendees about innovative methods to address urban heat challenges. The event promises to be a vibrant gathering for artists, civic leaders, and local residents alike.