"The design concept was a collaboration between Julie Lipton, development coordinator for Austin Parks and Recreation and myself. Our main concerns were the population that would be using the park (both age and cultural background) and the site. We wanted something that would be fun and unique to Springdale Park and still look great in the natural landscape of the site. We were very drawn to the organic earthen forms and bold images of the women of several African countries as illustrated in a book called African Canvas. Not only were they intriguing shapes but they were part of the landscape. The neighborhood around Springdale Park is primarily African American. We wanted to reflect this cultural heritage and bridge our design between the African past and Austin today." - Twyla Arthur
