Who are these faces gazing out at the bustling intersection? These are the Faces of Elysian a remarkable public art installation. Nine egg-shaped granite sculptures stand proudly. Each sculpture displays two different faces. Eighteen faces in total. They represent the diverse community of Elysian Valley Cypress Park and Lincoln Heights.
The Stone Woman Face is part of this powerful collection. It is not just a pretty face. It’s a 3D scan of a real person. A local resident. Someone significant in their community. The artists Freyja Bardell and Brian Howe chose ordinary people. They didn’t want famous statues. They wanted to celebrate the everyday heroes. The people who shape their neighborhoods.
These aren’t just faces carved in stone. They are guardians. They watch over the convergence of freeways rivers and railways. They stand witness to the lives that flow through this busy roundabout. The artists worked over seven years to create these masterpieces. They used granite from a Yosemite quarry. A truly remarkable feat of artistry and craftsmanship.
More than just art Faces of Elysian is a sustainable project. The roundabout itself is a stormwater retention system. Bioswales trap and filter the water. The remaining stone from the sculptures created the surrounding barrier. Even the landscaping uses drought-tolerant native plants. It’s a testament to the artists’ commitment to environmental consciousness.
The Stone Woman Face embodies this vision. It reflects the strength resilience and diversity of the community. It’s a silent observer. A silent testament to the human spirit. It is a powerful symbol of community pride and environmental awareness. A lasting legacy created from local talent and resources. So look closely at this fascinating work of art. Let the Stone Woman Face inspire you. Let it remind you of the people who make Los Angeles what it is.