Faith, Community, and the Power of Art: My Peace Pole Project in Dorchester

This past spring and to the end of summer, I had the opportunity to embark on a deeply meaningful project in collaboration with the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute. Together, we created the Faith Pole, as part of the Peace Pole installation in the heart of Dorchester. This project was not only a testament to the power of faith in fostering peace and unity amongst the core values, but it was also a celebration of community and shared experiences.

Here I am installing the work.

The process of creating the Faith Pole was truly a collaborative endeavor. I had the pleasure of working alongside the incredibly talented artist Ruth Henry, whose insights and creative vision added a rich layer of depth to the project. Together, we sought to create a piece that would encapsulate the values of faith, peace, and community, and that would serve as a beacon of hope and unity for all who encountered it.

In addition to collaborating with Ruth, I also had the chance to engage with survivor participants of the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute community, who played an integral role in bringing the Faith Pole to life. Their participation was crucial in ensuring that the project was reflective of the community's values and experiences. It was truly heartening to see so many community members come together, united by a shared vision of peace and harmony.

The final installation of the Faith Pole was a moment I will always cherish. Seeing the culmination of our hard work and the community's collective effort was incredibly rewarding. It was a tangible representation of the power of art to bring a group of intergenerational local residents together and create positive change. The Faith Pole stands as a testament to the strength and resilience of the Dorchester community, and I am honored to have been a part of this impactful project. Thank you to everyone who showed up, in person and in spirits!

As I reflect on the experience, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to work with such a dedicated and inspiring group of people. The Faith Pole Project was not just an artistic endeavor; it was a journey of community-building, learning, and growth. It is my hope that the Peace Pole will continue to inspire and unite the Dorchester community for years to come, serving as a reminder of the power of faith, art, and unity in creating a more peaceful world.