Here, a sundial tells more than time. This is Homage to La Ballona Creek Sculpture. It stands as a tribute to the natural world that once thrived here. The sculpture marks Culver City’s location at 32 degrees latitude.
Lucy Blake-Elahi created this artwork. She collaborated with 6th graders from Echo Horizon School. Together, they brought the area’s history to life with colorful tiles. These tiles depict the animals and plants of old. They are set around the sundial’s base.
Look closely. You will find quotations in various languages. These reflect Culver City’s diverse community. The words encircle the base, celebrating its multiculturalism.
Homage to La Ballona Creek functions as a real sundial. In winter, read the time from the south side. During summer, check the north side.
Lucy Blake-Elahi is not just an artist. She is an arts educator and a Culver City resident. This sundial is not her only contribution to the area. She also worked on two Ballona Creek mural projects. They are titled “Postcards from Ballona” and “Rivers of the World.”
“Postcards from Ballona” came first in 1997. Blake-Elahi collaborated with Lori Escalera and Francois Bardol. They guided students from Culver City Middle School. The mural honors the creek, its wildlife, and its past. It stretches 72 feet along the bikepath near Overland Avenue.
Then came “Rivers of the World” from 1998 to 2000. Blake-Elahi, Escalera, and David Fairrington led students and volunteers. This mural depicts rivers like the Amazon, Ganges, and Nile. It uses styles from the cultures along those rivers. The mural spans 234 feet near Duquesne Avenue. Parts of it are made of painted tiles due to sloping walls.
Blake-Elahi’s art connects the creek’s past and present. She involves the community in her projects. Her work raises awareness of Ballona Creek. She also served as a panelist to discuss Ballona wildlife, art and the watershed.
Consider Homage to La Ballona Creek Sculpture a meeting point. It merges art, education, and local history. It’s a reminder of the area’s natural heritage. It also celebrates the community’s diversity. It showcases the beauty of collaboration.