Colorado Artist Creates Message Of Hope In Lakewood

LAKEWOOD, CO — A Colorado artist has installed an iconic heart-shaped image on the west wall of the Lakewood Cultural Center, at 470 S. Allison Parkway. The heart, which is emblazoned with the word "hope" in brightly-colored radiating circles, aims to help people feel uplifted during the coronavirus outbreak.

Artist Koko Bayer has put up dozens of her prints in Colorado as part of her initiative, Project Spread Hope.

“The heart, symbolizing the self or spirit, also shows up often in my work," Bayer said. "In this print, it represents love, optimism and empathy.”

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The temporary and biodegradable paper prints are adhered with wheat paste on buildings, street corners and in unexpected places. The act of stumbling upon the joyful image adds to its impact, the Lakewood Cultural Center said. The center's print can be seen from the parking lot, and people can head up a ramp to get a closer view.

Lakewood Arts Programming Curator Laine Godsey said the city's public art committee was excited to bring Bayer's iconic heart to the center.

“It is not only that the work is simple, direct and incredibly fun to look at but more so that Koko, as an artist, is so eagerly giving a gift to her community during a time that can feel dark and isolated," Godsey said.

"The gift of art that impacts people’s outlook on the world is special, and we want Lakewood to experience the joy of Koko’s work.”