Reflections on Sunnyslope

May 17, 2025 through September 20, 2025

Reflections on Sunnyslope

Step into the artistic vision of landscape architect and artist Jessica Arias with Reflections on Sunnyslope—an impressive shade structure inspired by Sunnyslope Mountain. Part of ¡Sombra! Experiments in Shade, this temporary installation creates a unique gathering space where visitors can find relief from the sun while contemplating the beauty of the surrounding environment. With a canopy that mimics Sunnyslope Mountain, adorned with colorful drawings from local residents, Reflections on Sunnyslope forms a striking, collaborative representation of the natural world.

“Sunnyslope, as mentioned in its name, is characterized by its natural environment: the sun, the mountains, and the canal. This artwork will be a collaboration among neighbors as they reflect on how the natural environment defines their community.”

Jessica Arias

Project Description

As visitors enter Sunnyslope Park, they’ll see a silhouette of the mountains. As they move closer, they’ll encounter many reflections on how their neighbors relate to the natural environment, including its beauty and its challenges. The canopy structure will be installed in the open area between the basketball court and the playground, creating a gathering place to retreat from the sun. The outer form of the canopy will take a shape that mimics Sunnyslope Mountain, located just beyond the park. Members of the public will contribute to the artwork by adding their own drawings and notes to colorful flags that will later be attached to the underside of the canopy, creating a mirror image of the mountain outline.