Traffic Control Box

Traffic Control Box

Allie Giambalvo

"My inspiration for this project was within the stories of the community and within the Sonoran Desert. I wanted to showcase the beauty of Arizona while painting a more local picture of the people who live there. Each of the five sides represents a unique part of what makes our home special.

Arizona is home to a diverse amount of flora and fauna, including the Pipevine Swallowtail butterfly. This blue butterfly is related to the Arizona State butterfly, the Two-tailed Swallowtail. You can find these butterflies out pollinating desert plants in the springtime.

The Sonoran Desert panel showcases our most beloved cactus, the Saguaro within the native desert. The Saguaro is only found in Arizona, and in May and June white blooms can be seen on the tops. Flying in the sky is the Phoenix Lights UFO, paying homage to a 1997 phenomenon that is still talked about today.

The Aloha Motel came from an interview I listened to from one of the community members. She shared her memories from childhood about driving past this neon sign, and it reminding me of the old Shamrock sign on the I-17 on my side of town. These important childhood landmarks are something many of us have in common. This panel serves as nostalgia, a reminder of our past.

Day of the Dead was talked about by both the elementary and high school groups, and within the interviews of community members. I felt like honoring this tradition was an extremely important aspect, and I wanted to showcase the beauty and diversity of Galveston. The flowers in the Day of the Dead panel are the same flowers found in the butterfly, reminding us of our deep connection to nature. This panel represents culture and tradition.

The white petals floating throughout each panel serves as a reminder that we are all connected in many ways: nature, community, family, and home. And finally, the top panel is the constellation Phoenix.

Learn more about Allie's work at alliegiambalvo.bigcartel.com

Source: City of Chandler