Client: Tucson JCC

Overview

In 2009, the Tucson Jewish Community Center (TJCC) established a Sculpture Garden on its campus with a four-fold purpose in mind: to craft a public space that celebrates the appreciation of sculpture; to create an atmosphere of tranquility; to promote educational opportunities; and to enhance community fellowship. The Garden occupies approximately four acres of previously barren land on the TJCC campus, and came about when the City of Tucson realigned Alvernon Rd. and granting a previous easement back to the community center.

Goals

The sculptures are comprised of pieces in the permanent collection, artwork on long-term long, and pieces selected for an annual juried exhibition. Criteria for acceptance include: artistic excellence and originality of the work; durability of the work in an outdoor, desert environment; and concern for maintenance and safety issues. Work must be appropriate for an active pedestrian environment frequented by community members of all ages.

Process

The Sculpture Garden steering committee worked closely with Landscape Architect, Ellen Barth Alster, to design and craft a two-phase, three-year project. The space will continue to evolve in the near future, as the TJCC completes a capital campaign that will involve continued improvements to the building and the grounds.

Additional Information

Thanks to the generous support of our donors, the garden is able to welcome art from around the world with no effect on the JCC's annual operating budget. We feel fortunate to be able to support the arts, especially during this tough economy. The Garden is utilized by community members of all ages and has become an integral part of Arts & Culture programming at the JCC.