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New art installations illuminate the Aurora Highlands’ award-winning public art park

Jul 11, 2024

New works at Aurora Highlands are symbols of unity, resilience and hope

The Aurora Highlands has unveiled two monumental additions to its public art park, Hogan Park at Highlands Creek, enhancing its award-winning Art in the Park program. In May, the park welcomed a mural, “The Only Way Out is Through X SNYDER” and a striking 25-foot-tall sculpture, “Broken but Together,” installed by three internationally recognized artists. 

The mural, a collaboration between American contemporary artist Olivia Steeleand Berlin-based graffiti artist SNYDER, features Steele’s signature neon sign art paired with SNYDER’s impactful street art. Installed between May 27 and 31, it showcases the Robert Frost quote, “The Only Way Out is Through,” illuminating a graffiti mural of a phoenix rising from the ashes. This installation, located within one of the park’s walking tunnels, symbolizes resilience and hope, casting a luminous glow at all hours. 

“This mural represents the journey through difficult times, reminding everyone that perseverance is key,” said Steele, who also created the park’s inaugural “Public Displays of Awareness” art installations. “Art has the power to convey profound messages, and I am honored to contribute to this project. It’s about inspiring people to keep going, no matter how tough things get.” 

“The phoenix is a universal symbol of rebirth and renewal,” added SNYDER. “It’s about finding strength in adversity and coming out stronger on the other side. I hope this piece encourages people to see the potential for new beginnings in every challenge they face.” 

The second installation, “Broken but Together” by Belgian contemporary artist Michael Benisty, is a 25-foot-tall sculpture crafted from mirrored polished steel, depicting two figures in an embrace. This magnificent piece embodies unity and healing, reflecting light on its surroundings to symbolize the interconnectedness of the community.

“I have a passion for creating art that not only spreads positivity but also becomes a community gathering space,” Benisty said. “When approached to contribute to The Aurora Highlands’ art park, I was thrilled to create a piece that can be seen from far and wide and depicts a message of togetherness, bringing people from all walks of life to appreciate the beauty of art.” 

All the park’s permanent art installations were commissioned by Carla Ferreira, principal and director of onsite development at The Aurora Highlands. With a rich background working in art galleries across the country, she prides herself on bringing world-renowned art to The Aurora Highlands and Colorado as a whole, making it accessible to all. 

“Every installation within Hogan Park at Highlands Creek highlights themes of perseverance and unity, resonating deeply with our community’s values,” Ferreira said. “Public art like this not only beautifies our surroundings but also enriches our lives by provoking thought and emotion. It’s a testament to our commitment to creating a space where art and community flourish together.” 

The park’s new mural and sculpture join dozens of permanent art installations within the public park. This year, The Aurora Highlands also welcomed a bronze statue by artists Gillie and Marc depicting Colorado’s first Black female doctor, Dr. Justina Ford. Last year, the park’s Umi installation by artist Daniel Popper, a 21-foot-tall statue of a woman holding her womb, went viral, drawing visitors from around the country. 

Hogan Park at Highlands Creek’s Art in the Park program has recently received several prestigious awards, including the Gold Award at the National Association of Home Builders awards and recognition from the Colorado Business Committee for the Arts. These accolades highlighted the park’s innovative approach to integrating public art and community development, further establishing it as a premier cultural destination. 

Visitors are welcome to explore the new sculptures at any time. Stroll through Hogan Park at Highlands Creek to see all the pieces or find their individual geotags on Google Maps. Visitors also can find an interactive map highlighting all the park’s art on The Aurora Highlands’ app by searching “The Aurora Highlands” in the Apple Store or Google Play.