Public Art Exhibit to Open in May; Ten Hearts to be Placed Around Wilsonville

March 31, 2025 — A city with a lot of heart is about to become a city with a lot of hearts.

Ten large fiberglass hearts, painted by local artists, are going to be displayed at public sites throughout Wilsonville starting this May. The project’s theme – “Many Cultures, One Heart” – represents the distinctive artistic and cultural framework that makes Wilsonville a wonderful place.

“The project is providing emerging and professional artists, as well as students, with an opportunity to gain experience with public art and installed works,” said Erika Valentine, the City’s Arts and Culture Program Coordinator.

On Wednesday, April 30, the City is hosting an opening reception at the Stein-Boozier Barn at Murase Plaza (8300 SW Memorial Dr.), 5-7 pm, to celebrate the featured artists and provide a sneak peek at each of their creations.

In early May, the hearts are being installed in public locations near City parks and facilities to allow residents and visitors of all ages a chance to seek out and admire each piece of the collection. The hearts are expected to remain on display for at least a year. 

“Many Cultures, One Heart” is a project spearheaded by the City’s Arts, Culture, and Heritage Commission (ACHC) and funded by the Wilsonville-Metro Community Enhancement Program.

Participating artists include: Elle Knight, Zak Ostertag, Cathy Rowe, Charlie Correales, Triesta Zuber, Abhinaya Sudharsanam, Angenette Escobar, Addie Boswell, Eileen Begley, and Lonnie Garcia. Escobar, a teacher at Wilsonville High School, is collaborating with art students on her creation.

More than 30 talented emerging or professional artists responded to a Call for Art, each submitting a unique design concept for the 4.5’ by 4.5’ hearts. Artists were encouraged to incorporate themes around diversity into their designs, to celebrate many cultural communities within the City.

Submissions were reviewed by members of the ACHC and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee to select the project’s 10 featured artists.

To learn more about the project, contact Erika Valentine, Arts and Culture Program Coordinator at EValentine@WilsonvilleOregon.gov or visit wilsonvilleoregon.gov/hearts.