Community PUBLIC ART projects

Union Pacific Railroad Underpass

ArtMobile-AZ, artist Lisa Swanson, partnered with the CG Mosaic Creative Communities Team, City of Casa Grande Arts and Culture Commission and the community of Casa Grande in developing the design and creation of the “Casa Grande Union Pacific Railroad Underpass."

"THE PAST, PRESENT, and FUTURE"

To ensure the underpass reflects the identity and well-being of Casa Grande, the Creative Team held a series of community engagement focus sessions. Residents were invited to share ideas and visions, which led to the development of a central theme and design:

THE PAST: This section honors the early history of Casa Grande, reflecting on the rich cultural heritage and the community's roots. It highlights sculpted ceramic relief tiles of the historical architecture and the foundational "Five C’s": Cattle, Climate, Citrus, Cotton and Copper.

THE PRESENT: Here, the artwork celebrates today’s industries and businesses. Also the daily life and energy of the people of Casa Grande. Community members, alongside Lisa Swanson, created ceramic tiles featured in this section. This collaborative community art-making process promoted a sense of pride and ownership and enhanced social cohesion and civic identity.

THE FUTURE: Looking ahead, this section captures the hope, innovation, and legacy of Casa Grande's next generation. Children, as symbols of potential, are featured through ceramic mosaic tile wings made from their handprints. Longstanding and future industries and innovations are represented. A focus on resilience, growth, and sustainability emerges

The Union Pacific Railroad Underpass was transformed into a vibrant, welcoming space through the theme of The Past, Present, and Future. The project: Strengthens community well-being, connects generations, celebrates resilience and diversity and cultivates pride, and a shared sense of place

THE “PRESENT”

THE “PAST” and “FUTURE”