Rebecca Thompson

Sculptor & Fine Artist

La Puerta

The concept of art as a living entity is what makes public art come alive. La Puerta encompasses multiple visions, relates in significant ways to its community and speaks to the hopes and dreams of people throughout time.

“La Puerta”, a doorway of hope was constructed of rammed earth a material chosen for its sustainable properties and vernacular connections to the earth. The 200 individual keys created by local community members were cast on two 5’ by 18” bronze plates. Each key represents a unique personal story which was shared in a community book by the Artist.

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The Phoenix

This is a gateway feature for the downtown area of Phoenix.

According to sculptor, Rebecca Thompson, “the monument draws on the mythical story of the Phoenix Bird which rises anew from its own burning ashes, “The Phoenix” sculpture seeks to rediscover our City’s history and the pioneering spirit of the Southwest”.

Rebecca explains, “The Phoenix myth is primarily about transformation and renewal. I designed “The Phoenix” sculpture to embody a metaphorical balance of the elements, Earth, Water, Wind and Fire.” — Earth is represented through the primary construction material of golden hued “Rammed Earth.”

— Water is represented through the use of bronze plates wrapping around the 28’ foot structure like a river. Fish and aquatic life forms are modeled onto the bronze plates, symbolizing the preciousness of water sources and its life sustaining qualities as the desert’s most valuable resource.

— Wind is present as it moves through the opening in the center of the Phoenix structure.

— Fire is present as the sun moves its light and shadows through the center opening as well.