Three design concepts are now available for community input to help shape the public art planned for the future Veterans Memorial Park. The public art will be located on the park’s upper plateau, a prominent area with sweeping views of the ocean, lagoon and golf course.

The artist developed the initial concepts based on community feedback and input gathered from veterans, active duty military and military family members in our community. Themes that emerged include: 

• Honoring military service
• Telling a meaningful story
• Encouraging reflection and respect
• Reflecting the unique character and values of the Carlsbad community 
• Inviting engagement
• Fitting into the park’s natural setting

How to review the concepts
Watch the video below to learn more about the project, and then visit the project webpage to:

• Review the three public art concepts.
• Watch a short video to meet the artist, Gordon Huether.
• Share your input in an online survey through May 23.

The artist will present the three concepts at the May 1 Arts Commission meeting. This is a chance to hear directly from the artist and share your thoughts to help them refine and create a final design. 

Arts Commission meeting
Thursday, May 1, 5:30 p.m.
City Council Chamber
1200 Carlsbad Village Drive

The agenda and staff report will be posted by Monday, April 28.

How to participate

• Attend in person or watch the meeting live on the city’s website or cable channel.
• Provide comments in person at the meeting or email comments in advance to arts@carlsbadca.gov. (Please include the agenda item number in the subject line.)
• Emails received by 4 p.m. on May 1 will be shared with the Arts Commission before the meeting begins.

Next steps

• The online survey will be open through May 23.
• Input received will be shared with the artist to refine one design, which will be presented to the Arts Commission and City Council later this year.

About the artist
Last year, the city formed a committee made up of local veterans, an arts professional, and members of the city’s Arts Commission to select an artist for this important project. Gordon Huether Studio was chosen based on the team’s experience creating major public art projects, including art that honors veterans, and their emphasis on community collaboration.

About the park
Veterans Memorial Park, designed with community input, will offer places for quiet contemplation as well as active uses like the city’s first bike track and a nature-inspired playground. The public art on the upper plateau will honor veterans and create a reflective space for visitors.

Construction is expected to begin in late 2025 and be completed in 2027.

More information
Veterans Memorial Park public art webpage
Veterans Memorial Park webpage
Arts Commission
Cultural Arts Office, 442-339-2090, arts@carlsbadca.gov