The Gathering Grounds

The Gathering Grounds

At Sonora Middle School, our Arts Integration Partnership with Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art gives students the opportunity to connect learning across subjects through meaningful, real-world experiences. The partnership is founded on the belief that integrating American art across the curriculum and into the community is a powerful way to help students learn while fostering a sense of pride, connection, and identity. One key component of this partnership is the creation of a student-designed public art project. The Gathering Grounds was developed through this process, giving students the opportunity to collaborate on a meaningful space designed to bring people together and strengthen our school community. 

With guidance from a steering committee of teachers and administrators, students helped shape the vision for this project. Together, we chose to transform an existing space on campus into a welcoming outdoor gathering area for our school community.

Our inspiration comes from Common Ground, an interactive art installation by artist Risa Puno that brings people together through shared space and design. Originally commissioned by the NYC Parks Department, Common Ground has been installed in locations across the country, including New York City and Washington, D.C., engaging communities through art and collaboration.

Inspired by this work, our students designed and helped create mosaic tabletops and benches that reflect Springdale’s history, culture, and natural environment. The Gathering Grounds will serve as a vibrant outdoor classroom and community space for years to come.